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–+ servings
Orange Cake
This vintage Orange Cake recipe combines sweet citrus with the warm textures of raisins and walnuts for a comforting, nostalgic dessert. Fresh oranges are finely chopped and folded into a rich batter made with oleo (margarine), sugar, and eggs, then enhanced with vanilla and a touch of salt. The result is a moist, aromatic cake with tender crumb and bursts of juicy fruit and nutty crunch in every bite. It's an ideal treat for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a cheerful, homemade cake.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 374 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup oleo (or margarine)
  • 1½ cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 oranges (finely chopped)
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup walnuts (chopped )
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2½ cups flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Base

  • Beat oleo, sugar, and eggs together until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Fruit

  • Stir in finely chopped oranges.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking soda.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.

Step 5: Add Final Ingredients

  • Fold in raisins, chopped walnuts, and vanilla extract.

Step 6: Bake

  • Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan.
  • Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Tips

  • Substitute pecans for walnuts for a slightly sweeter, softer nut profile.
  • Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a warm citrus-spice variation.
  • Glaze with a simple orange juice, powdered sugar icing for extra brightness.
  • Replace half the raisins with chopped dates for deeper caramel notes.
  • Use butter instead of oleo for a richer flavor (texture will remain similar).
  • Fold in ½ cup shredded coconut for added texture.
  • Bake as cupcakes (adjust baking time to 18 to 22 minutes).
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg for more complexity.
  • Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 374kcalCarbohydrates: 59gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 225mgPotassium: 208mgFiber: 2gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 430IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 2mg
Keyword citrus dessert, comfort food, family recipe, from scratch, old-fashioned cake, orange cake, vintage baking, walnuts
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