Orange Pound Cake Mini Loaves

296 3 minutes read

These orange pound cake mini loaves are a delightful mix of buttery richness and citrusy brightness. The fresh orange zest and juice add a sunny flavour, while the moist and tender texture makes each bite melt in your mouth.

Perfect for breakfast, tea time, dessert, or even gifting, their smaller size makes them both practical and adorable. Plus, the recipe is easy to follow, even if you’re not an expert baker. The orange glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang, making these mini loaves impossible to resist.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough when the batter is ready. Prepare your mini loaf pans by greasing them with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line them with parchment paper for easy removal. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

This evenly distributes the leavening agent (baking powder) and ensures your cakes rise properly. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.

This step incorporates air into the batter, helping your cakes become tender. Crack the eggs into the butter mixture, one at a time. Beat well after each addition to ensure the eggs are fully mixed in. After adding all the eggs, mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.

The zest adds tiny bursts of orange flavour. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the wet ingredients (orange juice and milk). Start and end with the dry ingredients (e.g., dry, wet, dry, wet, dry).

Mix just until combined after each addition. Overmixing can make the loaves dense. Divide the batter evenly among the mini loaf pans. Fill each pan about 3/4 full to allow room for the cakes to rise. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth the tops. Place the pans on the middle rack of your oven.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking. Let the loaves cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. This helps them firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle.

Carefully remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Optional Glaze;

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Once the loaves are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Use a spoon or pour from a small jug for neat lines.

Expert Tips for Success;

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest provide the best flavour. Avoid using bottled juice.
Room Temperature Butter and Eggs: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs mix better, creating a smoother batter.
Grease the Pans Well: Properly greased pans prevent sticking, making the loaves easier to remove.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking the loaves at 30 minutes. Overbaking can dry them out.

Customization Ideas;

Dairy-Free Option: Replace the milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter.
Extra Texture: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips to the batter.
Tropical Twist: Substitute half the orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical flavor.
Lemon-Orange Duo: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the orange zest for a citrusy combo.

Serving Suggestions;

With Breakfast: Pair a loaf with a cup of coffee or tea for a cosy morning.
As Dessert: Serve with whipped cream or a dollop of yoghurt.
Gifting Idea: Wrap the loaves in clear cellophane or parchment paper, tie them with a ribbon, and gift them to friends and family.

Storage and Reheating;

Storage: Wrap the cooled loaves tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a low oven.

These orange pound cake mini loaves are a breeze to make and a joy to eat. Their bright citrus flavour and buttery texture make them a hit for any occasion.

Whether you’re treating yourself, hosting guests, or surprising someone with a homemade gift, these mini loaves are sure to bring smiles. Now it’s your turn—grab your ingredients and start baking. You’ll love the delicious results.