Infused with the bright, tangy flavor of fresh oranges, the 1 2 3 4 Cake Orange is a timeless dessert that combines classic baking simplicity with a citrusy twist. Named for its easy-to-remember formula—1 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, 3 cups flour, and 4 eggs—this cake boasts a moist, tender crumb thanks to the addition of fresh orange juice and zest. Vanilla extract and whole milk elevate its rich, buttery flavor, while a hint of baking powder ensures a beautifully fluffy texture. Perfect for any occasion, this cake can be served as-is, adorned with powdered sugar, or topped with a frosting or glaze of your choice for an elegant finish. With just 20 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes in the oven, this recipe yields a vibrant treat that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13-inch cake pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl or measuring cup, combine the milk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve as is or top with your favorite frosting, glaze, or powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Calories |
4176 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 127.0 g | 163% | |
| Saturated Fat | 67.3 g | 336% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1021 mg | 340% | |
| Sodium | 2477 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 707.1 g | 257% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.7 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 424.3 g | ||
| Protein | 72.3 g | 145% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.8 mcg | 34% | |
| Calcium | 507 mg | 39% | |
| Iron | 20.6 mg | 114% | |
| Potassium | 1320 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.