Get ready to transform your ordinary dessert routine with a mind-blowing Orange Almond Sheet Cake that'll make your taste buds dance! This isn't just another cake - it's a zesty, moist masterpiece that combines the bright, citrusy punch of oranges with the subtle, nutty elegance of almonds. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or when you simply need a mood-lifting treat, this sheet cake is about to become your new go-to dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1 cup orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and almond extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed, beating the ingredients for 2-3 minutes until the batter is smooth and well-blended, with no visible lumps.
- Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the entire surface. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean with no wet batter attached.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This allows the cake to set and makes it easier to glaze.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the orange glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of orange juice in a small bowl until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, drizzle the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to naturally spread and create an attractive finish.
- Let the glazed cake cool completely before cutting into squares. For best results, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat, precise servings.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a more uniform batter and better cake texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Check for Doneness Carefully: The toothpick test is crucial. A clean toothpick means your cake is perfectly baked.
- Glaze While Warm: Applying the glaze when the cake is slightly warm helps it absorb and create a more flavorful, moist result.
- Storage Tip: Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.
- Customize Your Flavor: For an extra orange kick, consider adding some orange zest to both the cake batter and the glaze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
