Christmas Spiced Orange Pound Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to fill your home with the warm, inviting scents of the holidays, this Christmas Spiced Orange Pound Cake Recipe is an absolute gem to try. Moist, fragrant, and wonderfully rich, it blends classic holiday spices with bright orange zest and juice for a pound cake that feels both cozy and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it up for a festive gathering or gifting slices to friends and family, this cake hits all the right notes on flavor, texture, and seasonal cheer.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together to create this flavorful masterpiece. Each one plays an important role—whether adding moisture, sweet flavor, spice warmth, or zesty brightness—to ensure your cake turns out perfectly balanced and utterly delicious.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while also helping with moisture retention.
• 4 large eggs: Bind ingredients and give the cake its classic dense but fluffy pound cake structure.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything together with the right heft.
• ½ cup orange juice: Infuses bright citrus flavor and adds moisture to keep the cake from drying out.
• 1 tbsp orange zest: Boosts the fresh orange aroma and adds concentrated citrus oils for depth.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: Brings cozy, sweet spice notes perfect for the holiday season.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg: Adds a hint of warm earthiness that complements the orange and cinnamon beautifully.

How to Make Christmas Spiced Orange Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease your loaf pan thoroughly to ensure the pound cake releases effortlessly once baked. This prep step means a smooth finish without any sticking mishaps.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This introduces air, which is crucial for giving your cake lift and tenderness.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps create a stable batter with even texture and prevents curdling.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Citrus

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your creamed mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Fold in the orange zest at the end to preserve its fresh flavor. This careful mixing ensures your cake has wonderful spice layers balanced with bright citrus notes.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The low temperature allows the cake to cook evenly without drying out, resulting in a tender crumb.

Step 6: Cool Completely Before Slicing

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack before removing and slicing. This resting time helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up just right, making every slice perfect.

How to Serve Christmas Spiced Orange Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

This cake pairs beautifully with simple garnishes that enhance its natural flavors. Try a light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy effect or a drizzle of orange glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh juice for an extra citrus punch. A few candied orange slices or fresh rosemary sprigs also add festive flair and fragrance.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to round out the experience. For a holiday brunch, complement it with spiced mulled wine or hot chai tea, both of which echo the cake’s warm spices and citrus notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine for charming gift packages your guests will love. You can also cut the cake into small cubes and serve as part of a festive dessert platter alongside fresh berries, nuts, and sweet dips for an inviting holiday spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and flavors vibrant without drying out. If your kitchen is warm, wrapping the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container helps retain moisture better.

Freezing

This Christmas Spiced Orange Pound Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months, making it a wonderful make-ahead treat for holiday gatherings.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake as if freshly baked, thaw frozen slices at room temperature then warm gently in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 10 minutes. This brings back some of that just-baked softness and lifts the aromas, making each bite delightful.

FAQs

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of bottled?

Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice actually enhances the bright citrus notes in the cake, making it taste even fresher and more vibrant.

What if I don’t have all-purpose flour—can I substitute?

All-purpose flour is best for the right texture, but if needed, you can use cake flour for a lighter crumb or a blend with whole wheat for added depth, keeping in mind slight changes in texture.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, but remember the flavor and texture will vary slightly from the original.

How long will the cake stay moist?

Thanks to the orange juice and butter, this pound cake stays moist for several days when properly stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this recipe?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries are fantastic additions that boost texture and holiday flavors, just fold them in with the dry ingredients.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Christmas Spiced Orange Pound Cake Recipe that makes it a holiday favorite year after year. Its perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and citrus zest creates an inviting flavor you’ll want to share with everyone you love. Whip it up for your next festive celebration and watch it disappear in no time! You’ll be so glad you did.

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