Name: Best Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: British
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 Freshly squeezed orange juice; 1-2 Tablespoons Orange zest

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 53 reviews

If you are craving a citrusy treat that perfectly balances sweetness and zing, then you are in for a real delight with the Best Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake Recipe. This cake has a beautifully moist crumb infused with fresh orange zest, topped with a luscious, tangy orange icing that will brighten up any afternoon tea or casual gathering. It’s a simple but impressive bake that feels like sunshine with each bite and is sure to become your go-to recipe when you want something special yet fuss-free. Let me take you through every step of this fantastic traybake that honestly tastes as great as it smells.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with thick, pale yellow batter that has a smooth, creamy texture. A wooden spatula covered in the same batter is lifted above the bowl, showing a swirl shape in the batter below. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. In the top part of the image, a small part of a yellow cloth with bee patterns and a bright orange fruit are visible on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind the Best Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a role in building a tender, flavorful cake with just the right texture and a vibrant orange hue that looks as lovely as it tastes.

250 g Softened butter: Provides rich moisture and a buttery depth that makes the cake tender and soft.
250 g Caster sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light, fluffy texture when creamed with the butter.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the cake’s flavor, complementing the orange perfectly.
4 Medium Eggs: Bind the ingredients and give the cake structure while keeping it moist.
250 g Self-raising flour: The rising agent that ensures the cake is light and airy without needing extra baking powder.
3 Tablespoons Milk: Adds moisture and helps achieve the smooth batter consistency.
Zest of 1 Orange: Brings intense citrus flavor and a fresh aroma that’s essential to this traybake.
200 g Icing sugar: Used for the sweet orange glaze that finishes the cake beautifully.
2 Tablespoons Freshly squeezed orange juice: Gives the drizzle a tangy punch and perfect glaze texture.
1-2 Tablespoons Orange zest: Sprinkled on top for a zesty, decorative finish that also adds texture to each bite.

How to Make Best Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat your oven

First things first, get your oven heating to 180℃ (or 160℃ if you’re using a fan oven). Prepare your 8×10-inch baking tin by lining it with baking paper to ensure your cake lifts out easily later.

Step 2: Cream butter and sugar

Next, in a large bowl, whisk the softened butter and caster sugar together until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. This step is key because it aerates the batter, giving your traybake a lovely light texture. Then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a gentle sweetness.

Step 3: Combine eggs, flour, and milk

Now, whisk in the eggs, flour, and milk gradually. Adding the eggs one by one helps the batter emulsify smoothly. The self-raising flour brings in the rise and structure, and the milk keeps it moist. Stir in the freshly grated zest of one orange at this stage to spread that irresistible citrus flavor throughout the cake.

Step 4: Bake the cake

Pour the batter into your prepared tin and smooth the surface evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s perfect when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is golden with a delicate crust forming.

Step 5: Cool the cake

Allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, giving it a chance to set and loosen from the sides. Then, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully is essential before adding your orange drizzle so the icing doesn’t run off.

Step 6: Prepare and add the orange drizzle topping

Mix the icing sugar with freshly squeezed orange juice to create a thick yet spreadable glaze. Slather it generously over the cooled cake, letting all that bright citrus soak in and create a glossy, sweet-tart coating. Finish by sprinkling the extra orange zest on top for a pop of color and texture. Let the glaze harden before slicing.

Step 7: Slice and enjoy

Once the icing has set, cut your cake into generous slices that show off the tender crumb and glistening drizzle. Trust me, every mouthful bursts with the perfect balance of buttery softness and vibrant orange freshness.

How to Serve Best Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake Recipe

A single square piece of light yellow cake with a soft, crumbly texture sits centered on a white plate. The cake has one distinct layer topped with a smooth, creamy white frosting. Scattered small orange zest pieces are sprinkled on the frosting’s surface, adding a pop of color. The plate rests on a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Keeping it simple is best here. A light dusting of additional orange zest or a few edible flower petals can add a delightful splash of color and enhance the citrus aroma. A dollop of softly whipped cream or a few whole orange segments on the side can elevate the presentation and flavor effortlessly.

Side Dishes

Serve this traybake alongside a steaming cup of black tea or fresh coffee for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up. For a refreshing contrast, offer it with a small bowl of mixed berries or a crisp green salad if you’re enjoying it as part of a light dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, try layering slices of the cake with mascarpone and orange compote for an elegant trifle-inspired treat. Alternatively, arrange the slices on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh herbs like mint or basil for a charming, casual vibe at gatherings. The vibrant orange drizzle glistens beautifully under soft lighting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover cake stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps the cake stay moist and preserves the delightful texture of the orange drizzle topping.

Freezing

This traybake freezes really well. Wrap individual slices tightly in cling film and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen for up to two months, they make a quick and satisfying treat when thawed overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

For warm slices, gently heat the cake in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven for around 5 minutes. This revives the moist crumb and slightly softens the orange drizzle for an extra comforting bite.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of self-raising flour?

You can, but you will need to add a baking powder equivalent to self-raising flour (about 2 teaspoons per 250 g of flour) to help the cake rise properly. Without it, the cake may be denser.

What if I don’t have fresh oranges?

Fresh orange zest and juice are key to the fresh citrus flavor in this cake. If unavailable, you can use bottled orange juice, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Try adding a little orange extract as a substitute for zest when fresh is not an option.

Can this traybake be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the self-raising flour for a gluten-free self-raising blend, ensuring it contains a similar raising agent. The baking time and texture should remain quite close to the original.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, replace the butter with a dairy-free spread and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. The cake may have a slightly different taste but will still be delicious and moist.

How long does the orange drizzle stay fresh on the cake?

The orange drizzle icing stays fresh and firm for about 2-3 days when stored properly at room temperature. After that, it might start to soften or absorb moisture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Final Thoughts

The Best Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake Recipe is truly one of those feel-good bakes that bring a bit of sunshine to your kitchen and your day. Its simplicity combined with bright, fresh flavors makes it a staple worth having in your recipe collection. I encourage you to try making this delightful cake yourself — I promise it will become a sweet favorite for sharing around your table again and again.