Bright & Buttery Orange Pound Cake Mini Loaves

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Bright & Buttery Orange Pound Cake Mini Loaves

These mini loaves are a sunshine-filled twist on classic pound cake—moist, tender, and bursting with real orange flavor. Whether you’re gifting, entertaining, or just indulging, this simple recipe delivers bakery-style results right from your kitchen.

Ingredients:

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp orange zest (from about 2 fresh oranges)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk

Optional Orange Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice

Instructions:

1. Prep the Pans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease 4–6 mini loaf pans thoroughly and set them aside.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air and creates a tender texture.

4. Add the Eggs:
Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth, well-emulsified batter. After the last egg, mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.

5. Alternate the Wet and Dry:
With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the orange juice and milk. Begin and end with the dry mixture (dry-wet-dry-wet-dry), mixing just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaves soft and fluffy.

6. Fill the Pans:
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared mini loaf pans, filling each about 3/4 full. Use a spatula to smooth the tops.

7. Bake:
Place the pans on the middle oven rack and bake for 30–35 minutes, rotating halfway through. The loaves are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool:
Let the loaves cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Orange Glaze:

Whisk together the powdered sugar and 2–3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Once the loaves are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or a small jug for clean, even lines.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest bring out the brightest, most authentic flavor. Avoid bottled juice.
  • Room Temperature Butter & Eggs: These mix more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and more even bake.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make the cakes dense.
  • Grease the Pans Well: This prevents sticking and keeps your loaves looking perfect.

Customization Ideas:

  • Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based butter.
  • Crunchy Add-ins: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or mini chocolate chips.
  • Tropical Twist: Replace half the orange juice with pineapple juice.
  • Citrus Combo: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest alongside the orange zest for extra zing.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Morning Treat: Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast.
  • Dessert Delight: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or thick yogurt.
  • Gifting Idea: Wrap cooled loaves in parchment paper or cellophane, tie with ribbon, and give them as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Storage & Reheating:

  • Store: Wrap tightly and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
  • To Reheat: Microwave a slice for 10–15 seconds or warm gently in a low oven.

These Orange Pound Cake Mini Loaves are a breeze to bake and even easier to enjoy. Their tender crumb and burst of citrus make them a standout for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for yourself, hosting guests, or surprising someone with a homemade gift, these loaves are sure to brighten the day.

 

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