Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon orange peel, grated
Cinnamon Cocoa Swirl
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Orange Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Orange zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
- Make the cinnamon cocoa mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Mix well and set aside for layering.
- Cream the butter and sugar: Using an electric mixer, cream together 1 cup softened butter, 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, and 3 eggs until light and fluffy. This creates a rich, smooth base for the batter.
- Add sour cream: Blend in 1 cup of sour cream to the butter mixture, adding moisture and tenderness to the cake.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing, ensuring a smooth batter. Stir in the grated orange peel for a citrusy aroma.
- Layer the batter and swirl: Pour about one-third of the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon cocoa sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Add another one-third of the batter, then sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Finally, top with the remaining batter. Use a knife to gently cut through the layers to create an attractive marble swirl effect.
- Bake the cake: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is fully baked and moist.
- Cool the cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the orange glaze: Beat 4 ounces of softened cream cheese in an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup powdered sugar and continue beating until fully combined. Add 1-2 tablespoons of orange juice and 2-3 tablespoons of milk slowly, adjusting until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency that’s not too thin.
- Glaze and garnish: Pour the orange glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle orange zest on top for a bright, fresh garnish. Slice and serve this beautiful, flavorful cake.
Notes
- The orange zest garnish adds a fresh burst of citrus flavor and a decorative touch.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth glaze without lumps.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- For a stronger orange flavor, add an extra tablespoon of grated orange peel to the batter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American