Light and fluffy, the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to birthday celebrations. With its refreshing orange flavor and delightful drizzle, this cake stands out with its bright color and zesty aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this traybake is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- For the Icing
- How to Make BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 3: Add Eggs, Flour, and Milk
- Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Step 5: Cool Down
- How to Serve BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- For Afternoon Tea
- As a Dessert
- With Fresh Fruit
- At Parties
- With Coffee
- How to Perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Best Side Dishes for BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Reheating BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake moist?
- Can I use other citrus fruits?
- How do I store leftover BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?
- Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this delicious cake.
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh orange zest and juice provides a burst of flavor that brightens up any dessert table.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for picnics, parties, or simply enjoying at home, this cake suits any occasion.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the self-raising flour and added milk, this traybake remains moist and tender.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings—add extra zest or even some candied oranges for an elegant touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, make sure you have the right tools. Having the essential equipment will help streamline your baking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking tin (8×10 inches)
- Baking paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows ample space to whisk together ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: A good whisk ensures that your butter and sugar blend well for a light and fluffy batter.
- Baking tin: Using the correct size tin helps achieve even baking for your traybake.
Ingredients
Light and fluffy orange traybake with glace icing and fresh orange zest on top.
For the Cake
- 250 g Softened butter
- 250 g Caster sugar
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 4 Medium Eggs
- 250 g Self-raising flour
- 3 Tablespoons Milk
- Zest of 1 Orange
For the Icing
- 200 g Icing sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1-2 Tablespoons Orange zest
How to Make BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180℃ (160℃ for fan ovens). Line an 8×10-inch tin with baking paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. The softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Flour, and Milk
Gradually whisk in:
1. The eggs one at a time.
2. The self-raising flour followed by the milk, mixing until smooth.
3. Finally, stir in the orange zest for that vibrant flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Transfer the batter into your lined tin:
1. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked:
1. Let the cake cool in the tin for around 10 minutes.
2. Carefully flip it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before icing.
Enjoy making this delightful BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake!
How to Serve BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Serving the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a delightful experience. Whether for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, here are some ways to enjoy this sweet, zesty cake.
For Afternoon Tea
- Pair with your favorite tea blend for a refreshing afternoon break. The bright orange flavor complements floral teas beautifully.
As a Dessert
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delicious treat.
With Fresh Fruit
- Accompany with fresh berries or sliced oranges. The fruit adds freshness and enhances the citrus notes of the cake.
At Parties
- Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy serving at gatherings. These small portions make it perfect for sharing with friends.
With Coffee
- Enjoy alongside a rich cup of coffee. The sweetness of the cake pairs wonderfully with the bitterness of coffee, making it an ideal breakfast or snack.

How to Perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
To achieve the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, keep these tips in mind for the best results:
Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
Don’t overmix the batter – Gently incorporate ingredients to maintain airiness; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Fresh ingredients matter – Use fresh oranges for zest and juice to maximize flavor and aroma in your cake.
Check your oven temperature – Make sure your oven is properly calibrated; baking times may vary based on oven performance.
Cool completely before icing – Let the cake cool fully before adding icing to prevent it from melting away into the cake.
Best Side Dishes for BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
To create a well-rounded meal or snack time, consider pairing your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake with these side dishes:
Greek Yogurt – A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt brings tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake.
Chocolate Ganache – A rich chocolate glaze drizzled over the top can add an indulgent touch to each slice.
Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and complements the citrus flavors perfectly.
Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds another layer of texture and flavor, enhancing each bite.
Coconut Flakes – Toasted coconut flakes sprinkled on top add crunch and tropical vibes to your dessert.
Lemonade – A refreshing glass of lemonade offers a zesty contrast that pairs well with the orange flavors in the cake.
Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that works well with sweet desserts.
Pistachio Crumble – Crushed pistachios on top add crunch and nutty flavor that enhances taste and presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the butter softening step: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a light and fluffy texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake. Aim for smoothness without extra mixing.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for best results. Precision matters in baking!
- Ignoring the cooling time: Allow the cake to cool properly before icing. This prevents the glaze from melting away.
- Using stale ingredients: Check that your baking powder and other ingredients are fresh. Stale items can affect rise and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- The traybake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 160℃ (320℉) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake.
How do I make the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake moist?
To keep your cake moist, avoid overbaking it and consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk or orange juice.
Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes! You can substitute lemon or lime zest and juice for a different flavor profile while still enjoying a delicious drizzle cake.
How do I store leftover BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you follow all other steps as usual.
Final Thoughts
The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. Perfect for any occasion, you can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress. Give it a try today!
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BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any gathering. This light and fluffy cake is infused with fresh orange zest and juice, delivering a refreshing citrus burst in every bite. Topped with a sweet glaze, it’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to its vibrant color. Ideal for afternoon teas, birthday celebrations, or simply as a delightful snack at home, this versatile cake will impress both seasoned bakers and novices alike. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up this zesty confection effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 250 g Softened butter
- 250 g Caster sugar
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 4 Medium eggs
- 250 g Self-raising flour
- 3 Tablespoons Milk
- Zest of 1 orange
- 200 g Icing sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh orange juice
- 1–2 Tablespoons Orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) and line an 8×10-inch baking tin.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in vanilla extract and gradually add eggs one at a time.
- Mix in self-raising flour followed by milk until smooth; stir in orange zest.
- Pour batter into the prepared tin and bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For icing, mix icing sugar with orange juice and zest then drizzle over the cooled cake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (75g)
- Calories: 268
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 66mg





