Irresistible Orange Almond Cake Recipe Perfect for Dessert

Name: Irresistible Orange Almond Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Ingredients: 2 cups (200g) almond flour; 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 teaspoon baking powder; Pinch of salt; 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (for glaze)

Posted on November 8, 2025

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The aroma of sweet oranges mingling with nutty almond notes always feels like a warm hug. This glazed orange almond cake recipe is a showstopper—it’s moist, flavorful, and topped with a glossy orange glaze that makes every bite dreamy. It’s the kind of dessert you whip up when you want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this cake will steal the spotlight, whether it’s for a fancy dinner party or a cozy Sunday afternoon treat.

I first discovered this recipe during a trip to a quaint bakery tucked away in a seaside town. The baker shared her secret of using almond flour to keep the cake irresistibly tender while infusing it with a subtle nuttiness. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it my own, and now it’s a family favorite. The glaze? Oh, it’s everything you didn’t know you needed—bright, tangy, and sweet, it’s the perfect finish.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts elegant and comforting, this orange almond cake is calling your name. It’s gluten-free, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This cake comes together quickly with simple ingredients and minimal fuss.
Gluten-Free: The almond flour makes this recipe naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of fresh oranges and almonds creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile—sweet, nutty, and citrusy.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dessert, a birthday cake, or just a weekend indulgence, this cake fits the bill.
Impressive Yet Simple: The glossy orange glaze makes it look bakery-worthy, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Moist and Tender: Thanks to the almond flour and orange juice, every bite is soft, comforting, and packed with flavor.

This isn’t just any cake—it’s the kind of dessert that makes people ask for the recipe. The almond flour adds a unique texture, while the orange glaze ties everything together beautifully. It’s my go-to for when I want to treat myself (or my guests) to something truly special.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This irresistible glazed orange almond cake is made with easy-to-find ingredients that pack a punch of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Almond Flour: Fine almond flour is essential for the cake’s moist, tender texture. It also keeps the recipe gluten-free.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of the orange zest and juice.
Eggs: Large eggs at room temperature help the cake rise and provide structure.
Fresh Orange Zest: The zest adds a concentrated citrus flavor that makes the cake pop.
Fresh Orange Juice: Use fresh oranges for the best flavor—it keeps the cake moist and adds brightness.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a hint of warmth.
Baking Powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays light.
Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Powdered Sugar: For the glaze—it blends perfectly with the orange juice to create a glossy finish.

If you’re looking for substitutions, you can swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly healthier option or use dairy-free vanilla extract to make it lactose-free. Trust me, no matter the tweaks, this cake turns out amazing every time!

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowls: A few medium bowls for combining the dry and wet ingredients.
Hand Mixer or Whisk: A hand mixer is ideal for whipping the eggs and sugar, but a sturdy whisk works too.
9-inch Round Cake Pan: Ensure it’s non-stick or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Zester: Perfect for getting finely grated orange zest—you don’t want any bitter pith.
Juicer: To extract fresh orange juice effortlessly.
Spatula: For folding the ingredients together without deflating the batter.

If you don’t have a zester, a fine grater works just as well! And for budget-friendly options, silicone spatulas and basic non-stick pans work perfectly.

Detailed Preparation Method

Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups (200g) of almond flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Whip Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat 4 large eggs (room temperature) with 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar using a hand mixer until pale and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon orange zest, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice until smooth and glossy.
Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a stunning finish.

The key to success? Don’t rush the cooling process—glazing a warm cake could lead to a sticky mess!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest yield the best flavor—skip the bottled stuff!
Don’t Overmix: To keep the cake fluffy, gently fold the ingredients together instead of vigorously mixing.
Cool Completely: Let the cake cool fully before glazing to avoid melting the icing.
Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Adjust the Glaze Consistency: If it’s too thick, add a splash of orange juice. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.

Here’s a bonus tip: If you’re feeling fancy, garnish the cake with slivered almonds or orange zest for extra flair.

Variations & Adaptations

Make It Dairy-Free: Use coconut sugar and dairy-free vanilla extract for a fully dairy-free version.
Seasonal Twist: Replace orange zest and juice with lemon or lime for a tangy variation.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond flour with all-purpose gluten-free flour for a nut-free recipe.
Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a citrus-chocolate combo.
Extra Citrus Punch: Mix lemon zest into the glaze for a zesty twist.

One of my favorite tweaks is swapping orange zest for blood orange zest in winter—it’s vibrant and stunning!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This glazed orange almond cake is best served at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat, or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap the unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Glaze it after thawing.
Reheating: Let the cake come to room temperature naturally—no oven or microwave needed.

A pro tip? The flavors deepen after a day or two, making it even more delicious!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This cake is packed with wholesome ingredients:

Calories: Approximately 250 per slice (based on 12 servings).
Protein: Almond flour adds a healthy dose of protein.
Gluten-Free: Safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vitamin C: Fresh orange juice provides a boost of Vitamin C.
Low-Carb Option: Swap sugar for a low-carb alternative for keto-friendly dessert.

Enjoy this treat guilt-free—it’s a little indulgence with some nutritional perks!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a cake that’s as stunning as it is delicious, this glazed orange almond cake is the answer. With its perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up any day of the week!

Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below. If you loved it, share this recipe with your friends—they’ll thank you!

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can substitute almond flour with all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend, but the texture will be slightly different.

How do I avoid a dense cake?

Ensure your eggs are at room temperature and don’t overmix the batter—this helps keep the cake light and fluffy.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cake can be baked a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container and glaze it right before serving.

What’s the best way to zest oranges?

Use a zester or fine grater, and avoid the white pith—it’s bitter and can affect the taste.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch!