Orange Sour Cream Pound Cake: A Citrusy Twist on a Classic Dessert
Pound cake is a classic dessert that’s been enjoyed for generations. It’s simple, yet delicious, with a dense and buttery texture that’s perfect for soaking up flavors. And while vanilla and chocolate pound cakes are popular, have you ever tried an orange sour cream pound cake? The tangy and citrusy flavor of the oranges pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy sour cream, making for a unique and mouth-watering treat. In this article, we’ll show you how to make an orange sour cream pound cake that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
To make an orange sour cream pound cake, you will need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions
Follow these steps to make a delicious orange sour cream pound cake:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease and flour a 10-inch tube or bundt pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the orange zest and orange juice until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your orange sour cream pound cake turns out perfectly:
- Use room temperature ingredients for the best results. This will help the ingredients mix together evenly and create a smoother batter.
- Be sure to cream the butter and sugar well. This will help the cake rise properly and create a lighter texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you’ve added the flour. This can lead to a tough and dense cake.
- Use fresh oranges for the best flavor. You can use a microplane grater or a zester to grate the orange zest finely.
Variations
Want to experiment with different flavors? Here are some fun variations to try:
Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a fun and crunchy texture.
Use lemon juice and zest instead of orange for a tangy and refreshing twist.
Mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor.
Benefits of Orange Sour Cream Pound Cake
In addition to its delicious taste, orange sour cream pound cake has some health benefits as well. Oranges are a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and protect against diseases. Sour cream is a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. And while pound cake is certainly not a healthy food, enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet can bring happiness and satisfaction.
Conclusion
Orange sour cream pound cake is a delicious and unique twist on a classic dessert