Description
This Orange & Pecan Bundt Cake is a moist and tender dessert bursting with fresh citrus flavor. Loaded with crunchy pecans and finished with a simple orange glaze, it is perfect for holidays, afternoon tea, or any special occasion, providing a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a satisfying nutty texture.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Orange Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup Bundt pan thoroughly to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; this creates a well-distributed leavening base for the cake.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which adds volume and tenderness to the cake.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth and stable batter.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract to infuse the batter with bright citrus and aromatic vanilla notes.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter which can cause toughness.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold the chopped pecans into the batter for crunchy texture throughout the cake.
- Fill Pan and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes to set. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess and ensuring proper texture.
- Prepare Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest to form a smooth glaze that complements the cake’s flavors.
- Glaze Cake: Drizzle the orange glaze evenly over the cooled cake and let it set before slicing for the perfect finishing touch.
Notes
- Bring the butter and eggs to room temperature before preparing the batter to achieve a smoother and more even texture.
- Grease and flour every part of the Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the batter to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American