Orange Loaf Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. If desired, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the cooled cake before serving.