Lemon Orange Cake Recipe
I like to bake this lovely three-layer cake instead of a more traditional pie for Thanksgiving. It has that tangy Florida citrus flavor and isnt any more difficult to make than a two-layer cake.
I like to bake this lovely three-layer cake instead of a more traditional pie for Thanksgiving. It has that tangy Florida citrus flavor and isnt any more difficult to make than a two-layer cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup butter softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- frosting:
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
- 5 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 to 2 tablespoons grated orange peel
- 1 to 2 tablespoons grated lemon peel
- 5-1/2 to 6 cups confectioners' sugar
- Carbohydrate 30.6254699536154 g
- Cholesterol 312.330009631577 mg
- Fat 45.8718791116301 g
- Fiber 1.03183335280964 g
- Protein 11.5081541721604 g
- Saturated Fat 26.4855125679447 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -12 serving (206g)
- Sodium 12004.5233745374 mg
- Sugar 29.5936366008058 g
- Trans Fat 3.70137875365407 g
- Calories 579 calories
Step-by-step
- In a bowl, cream butter, shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat well after each addition.
- Stir in extracts.
- Pour into three greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, in a bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy.
- Add the orange juice, lemon juice, peels and extract; beat until well blended.
- Gradually add confectioners' sugar, beating until frosting reaches desired spreading consistency.
- Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides of cake.
My Lemon Orange Delight: A Thanksgiving Twist
Thanksgiving. The word itself conjures images of golden-brown turkeys, overflowing tables laden with family favorites, and the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice filling the air. For years, I’ve been a devoted pie baker, meticulously crafting apple, pecan, and pumpkin pies, each a testament to tradition. But this year, I decided to shake things up a bit. I wanted something that held onto the warmth and coziness of the holiday, but also possessed a fresh, vibrant personality. That's when I discovered this extraordinary Lemon Orange Cake.
This isn't your average layer cake; oh no, this is something special. It's a symphony of citrus, a harmonious blend of tart and sweet that cuts through the richness of the Thanksgiving feast like a refreshing breeze. Imagine the bright, sunny tang of lemons and the sweet, aromatic zest of oranges intertwined in a moist, tender cake. The layers are beautifully soft, practically melting in your mouth, and the frosting? A cloud of citrusy perfection that elevates the experience to another level. It’s a cake that embodies the best of both worlds: the comfort of a classic dessert and the surprising zest of something new.
The recipe itself is surprisingly straightforward. It’s not some overly complicated concoction demanding hours in the kitchen; rather, it’s a balanced combination of simple steps that yield extraordinary results. The process of creaming butter, sugar, and eggs is wonderfully therapeutic, a moment of mindful creation. The gradual addition of dry ingredients ensures a light, airy texture; and the final touch of zesty frosting brings the entire creation together. Honestly, there's something truly magical about watching this cake transform from humble ingredients into a show-stopping centerpiece. It's almost meditative, a creative flow that allows the stresses of the holiday season to melt away.
This isn’t just a cake; it’s a conversation starter, a delicious centerpiece that encourages laughter and sharing. It’s a testament to the joy of creating something special for those you love. It’s a departure from the expected, a breath of fresh air amidst the usual Thanksgiving traditions, and honestly, it's quickly becoming a new family favorite. The vibrant citrus flavors are a delightful complement to the traditional Thanksgiving meal, offering a lightness and brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the other dishes. This year, trade the stress of endless pie making for the simplicity and joy of baking this exquisite cake. You won’t regret it!
Beyond Thanksgiving: This lemon orange cake isn’t just for Thanksgiving. Its delightful flavor profile makes it perfect for any occasion. From birthdays and showers to simple weeknight celebrations, this cake is sure to impress. It’s a versatile dessert that shines on its own but can also be beautifully paired with fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. The possibilities are endless.
This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a journey. A journey into the heart of flavor, a journey into the comforting ritual of baking, and a journey into the creation of something truly special. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and get ready to experience the magic of this Lemon Orange Cake. The memories you create while baking, and the joy you share while savoring each delightful bite, will be the most precious ingredient of all.
