Beat and Bake Orange Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup milk

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange juice and zest. Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the milk; beat until just blended.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• Orange cake has a long history as a popular American dessert, dating back to the early 1800s.
• It is believed to have originated in the southern United States and is now enjoyed all over the world.
• Orange cake is a great way to use up excess oranges or orange juice.
• The cake is often served with a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze.