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Orange Swirl Cake with Orange Glaze Recipe

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3.9 from 13 reviews

A deliciously moist and tender Orange Swirl Cake featuring a beautiful cinnamon cocoa swirl throughout the tender crumb, topped with a creamy orange-flavored cream cheese glaze. This bundt cake combines zesty orange peel with warm spices for a delightful dessert perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 slices

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Add sour cream: Blend in 1 cup of sour cream to the butter mixture, adding moisture and tenderness to the cake.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American