Introduction to the Whole Orange Cake Recipe
Welcome to our delightful Whole Orange Cake recipe! Made with whole oranges, this cake is not only incredibly tasty but also offers numerous health benefits. In this article, we will explore the popularity of this cake, its nutritional value, and why it should be a part of your baking repertoire.
Popularity
The Whole Orange Cake has gained immense popularity among baking enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Its unique blend of flavors, combined with its moist and tender texture, has made it a go-to choice for many. Whether you are looking for a refreshing treat to enjoy during the summer or a comforting dessert for any occasion, this cake is sure to please any palate.
Health Benefits
What sets the Whole Orange Cake apart from other cakes is its inclusion of whole oranges, providing an array of health benefits. Oranges are packed with essential vitamins such as Vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin. Additionally, they contain dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and maintaining a healthy weight.
By using whole oranges in this recipe, you are incorporating all parts of the fruit, including the peel. Orange peels are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, offering potential protective effects against various chronic diseases.
Furthermore, this cake can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Those following a vegan lifestyle can replace traditional eggs with mashed bananas or applesauce, ensuring everyone can indulge in this delicious cake.
In conclusion, the Whole Orange Cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a range of health benefits. Its popularity stems from its unique combination of flavors, moist texture, and versatility in accommodating various dietary preferences. So, why not give this recipe a try and indulge in a slice of this delightful, healthful treat today!

Ingredients
- 2 oranges whole
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Wash the oranges and place them in a pot of boiling water. Cook for 15 minutes until soft.
- Remove the oranges from the water and let them cool. Once they are cool, cut them into quarters. Remove any seeds and place the oranges in a blender or food processor. Process until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vegetable oil and beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the processed oranges to the batter and mix until well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake is cooled, you can frost it if desired or serve it as is. Enjoy!
Nutrition










I didn’t remove every single seed (oops) and it was slightly bitter in spots. Next time I’ll be more careful, but overall it was still yummy.
This cake was amazing! So moist and flavorful. Will definitely make again!
Looks simple. Gonna try it this weekend.
Wow, super easy! My kids loved it! Thanks for sharing this recipe! 🎉
I tried it but it came out too dense. Maybe I messed something up… not sure.
Cool idea! Glad I found this. Looks pretty too! 😍
Whaaat?! You can bake oranges? Mind blown. Gotta try this for my next family gathering.
Wow, this sounds incredible! Can’t wait to show off this unique recipe to my fam! 🍊
I followed the recipe exactly but my cake turned out really dense. Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not impressed. 2 stars.
Did you check if your baking powder is fresh? That can make a difference! Also, maybe try beating the eggs longer next time? Just a thought!
I had the same problem! My cake was so heavy, I thought I made a brick instead. I think maybe it’s the flour ratio? Not sure…
This cake is delicious! I never thought of using whole oranges. It’s a game changer!
I made this cake and it was a hit at the party! Everyone loved it! Thanks for sharing! 😋
Whole oranges? Is that even safe? I mean do they taste good in a cake? I dunno about this one…
This is a nice “weekend bake” recipe, but the prep is a lot more work than plain cake. Boiling, cooling, blending… still worth it though.
This cake tastes like breakfast meets dessert. I used a little orange zest glaze and it was chef’s kiss.
“Breakfast meets dessert” is exactly the vibe 😍 I’ve been craving orange desserts lately, so this sounds perfect. Did you bake yours for the full 60 minutes?
I tried this but my cake came out flat. Was I supposed to use blood oranges or something? 🤔
This cake is amazing! So moist and flavorful. I love the orange zest mixed in. Definitely a 5-star recipe!
I followed the recipe to a T, but the oranges burnt in the boiling water. Should I cover them next time?
Oranges burning? I don’t get it. I boiled mine just fine. Maybe try a different pot?
I usually cover them with a lid or foil to prevent burning. That might help next time!
WOW! Can’t believe how good this turned out! So many compliments from friends! 😍
So glad to hear that! It’s one of my favorites too. 😄
This cake is amazing! I never thought using whole oranges would taste so good. Got lots of compliments at my party!
Can you use lemon instead? I have a ton of lemons and no oranges. Hope it works!
I didn’t have any eggs so I used applesauce instead. Still turned out delicious!
That’s a clever substitution! I’ve heard applesauce works well in baking. Glad it turned out yummy!
Sounds oooooh, yum yum delicious !!! Going to make this
Hi, Rita. Thanks a bunch! Feel free to add your twist to the recipes. You can submit it using the “SUBMIT YOUR RECIPE” option on the home page. We’d be thrilled to see what you create!
Orange cake? I never thought about it. Turns out I was missing out! Fantastic!
I dunno, using whole oranges? Sounds weird. How does it taste, really?
I’m so glad you tried it! The whole orange idea is genius for flavor. 🍊
Not sure about the “toothpick comes out clean” step—mine looked done but the center was still slightly wet. I ended up adding ~10 more minutes. Would love clearer timing.
Totally agree—“clean toothpick” is vague with this kind of citrus-wet batter. I also go by a gentle spring back on top plus a few extra minutes if needed. Adding 5–10 min seems normal.
it’s dry and has a funny taste. I came expecting a cake and got something else. 🙁
Can I substitute the oil for butter? Butter makes everything better! 😄
I was skeptical about blending the whole oranges, but wow. Sweet, citrusy, not bitter at all. I used a little extra baking powder (oops) and it still turned out great.
I think there is too much sugar, it’s really sweet! Next time, I’ll reduce it by half. 3 stars for now.
Yass! Perfect dessert for our tea party. Everyone devoured it! 🧁
I hate oranges. Why would anyone eat this?!
LOL, if you hate oranges, why even bother looking at this recipe? Just stick to chocolate cake!
Not everyone likes oranges, but this cake is so good! Give it a try, you might surprise yourself!
This was a hit at the family reunion! Everyone was asking for the recipe. Thanks for sharing! 5 stars!
Is it really that good? Looks simple but not sure about boiling oranges. Sounds weird.
This cake took forever to bake. 60 minutes? What if it’s burnt? Rethink ur timing!!
I made this with one orange that was kind of thick-skinned—still turned out great. Super fragrant and moist. The blender step is key; don’t half-blend it.
One orange?? That’s brave 😅 Mine always needs more batter. Still, if it turned out moist and fragrant I might try your ratio—did you adjust the bake time at all?
Yes!! I also find the blender step makes all the difference—keeps it smooth and not bitter. Glad it still worked with thick skin oranges.
Idk it turned out kinda dense. Could be my baking powder (it old). Still, orange flavor is strong and nice.
I messed up the batter and added too much sugar. Now it’s just a big sweet mush! 🤦♂️
Tried this and it’s honestly so aromatic—like real orange flavor, not just “hint of citrus.” The texture came out tender too. I baked mine right around 55 minutes.
It was alright, but kinda dense for my taste. Maybe a little too much flour?
Made this today—wow. The whole orange thing is legit. Super moist and fragrant, and the crumb stayed tender even after cooling.
This makes me want to bake it ASAP. “Whole orange” cakes always sound intimidating but your results sound perfect—moist, fragrant, and not dried out. 🙌
I tried something similar once and it was super bitter—did you do anything about the pith? Also 15 min boiling seems short? Maybe my oranges were bigger. Either way, glad yours turned out!
1/2 cup oil seems a lot… but the cake isn’t greasy. Kinda sweet though; maybe reduce sugar next time.
Not gonna lie I almost skipped the boiling step. Don’t. Boiling softens the peel way more—huge difference in texture.
Tastes like sunshine! 🥰 My kids loved it. A fun twist to regular cake recipes!
So glad to hear that! This cake really is a unique treat. 🍊✨
I don’t know about sunshine, but my kids didn’t like it at all. Too weird for us! 😕
Don’t know why people rave about this… just an average cake for me.
Lol i overcooked it a bit cuz i didnt check. Still orange, but dry-ish. Next time watch the clock better!
Oh nooo 😅 but “still orange” is a win honestly. I’ve done the same—these cakes go from perfect to dry way faster than you’d think. Next time maybe check around 45 min?
This cake turned out AMAZING! I had my doubts with whole oranges, but it was so flavorful. Definitely making this again!
This sounds so unique! I would have never thought to use whole oranges. I bet the flavor is out of this world! Can’t wait to try it myself!
Whole orange cake? Isn’t that weird? Looks tough to make. 🙄
Looks kinda complicated for a cake. I wonder if it really tastes good… 🤔
I know it sounds unusual, but trust me, it’s actually super delicious! The flavor is amazing! 😋
Interesting recipe, but why cook the oranges? Seems like unnecessary work. I’d rather just use orange juice.
My kids loved it! Thank you for this easy recipe. 🍰
Y’all, best cake ever! I made it for my mom’s bday and she cried. This cake brings joy! 🍰
Good cake, but it took forever to bake! 🙄 I had to leave it in for almost 70 mins. What’s up with that?
I followed it exactly and the center was a little underdone at 50 minutes. I had to bake longer and tent with foil. Not a dealbreaker, just adjust timing.
Good to know! I always think 50 minutes is “magic,” but ovens vary a lot. I’ll plan to tent with foil if the top browns too fast.
Yummy! I added some chocolate chips to the batter and it turned out great! 🍊🍫
Chocolate chips? That sounds amazing! I’ll have to try it that way. 🍰
Followed steps exactly, but my toothpick didn’t come out clean at 50 minutes, so I went closer to 65. Could be my oven, but still delicious. Nice and moist.
It was okay but I expected more flavor. Maybe I’ll try using blood oranges next time. Not sure if that would work.
Not sure about this. I mean, whole oranges? Sounds weird. I might stick to my chocolate cake.
Mine took closer to 65 minutes but that toothpick test saved me. Tastes like a fancy orange loaf cake. Love how simple the ingredients are.
So good!!! I’d never thought to boil oranges before. I’m gonna try it again and add chocolate next time. Yum!
This cake is amazing! I’ve never thought of using whole oranges, but it turned out so good. Will make again!
Why cook the oranges? Seems unnecessary. I just blended them raw and it worked.
Yum! Orange cake is the best! This recipe is super easy, love it!
I love how easy this recipe is! Just throw in the oranges and blend them! Perfect for a beginner like me!
Not for me. The texture was weird and too orangey. Maybe just use orange zest next time? 🤷♂️
Pretty good, but I think 1 cup sugar felt a tiny bit low for my taste since I used very juicy oranges. Next time I’ll add a little more or maybe a simple glaze.
Did anyone else get a slightly bitter taste? I used oranges that were kind of tangy. Maybe the seeds weren’t fully removed?
Could be the seeds/pith. I always quarter, then I run my fingers through to get every seed and stringy bits out. Also make sure you cook the oranges until really soft—undercooked orange can taste weird/bitter.
Yes! I noticed that too the first time. I think I didn’t process it long enough, and some tiny bitter bits from the pith stayed in. Next time I’ll blend super smooth and scrape any stubborn bits off the orange before blending.
Ain’t nobody got time for boiling oranges! Just buy orange juice and mix it. Saves time!
I’m skeptical about baking whole oranges. The smell is great, but mine came out a little bitter in the middle. Maybe I didn’t cook them long enough.
Whole orange in cake sounds amazing, but yeah—bitterness in the middle usually means the pith/rind didn’t fully mellow. I bet they needed either longer boiling or more thorough blending (and maybe you still left some white pith).
Mine was bitter too 😩 I followed the 15 min boil but the center stayed kinda intense. Next time I’m gonna simmer them closer to 25-30 min and test softness before blending.
Huh? Whole oranges? Sounds gimmicky. I probably won’t make this.
I thought it was gonna be a complicated recipe, but whole oranges? That’s kinda cool! I’m gonna try it for sure!
Seriously, whole oranges? That just sounds weird. I doubt that’s gonna taste good.
Made this today—whole orange flavor is unreal. I baked the full 60 minutes and it came out super moist. Definite keeper!
I was skeptical about blending the whole oranges, but wow. The cake tastes like orange marmalade but softer. Next time I’ll maybe add a little vanilla.
I was skeptical too 😅 but once I tried it, whole oranges really do magic. The texture is so much softer than I expected.
Wait… 2 whole oranges in a blender? I feel like that might turn out bitter unless you soak them for longer. I’d add vanilla AND maybe a bit more sugar to balance it.
YUM! Did mine with a chocolate glaze on top and it was heavenly! I’m baking it again this weekend!
That chocolate glaze sounds incredible! I bet it adds such richness to the cake. Can’t wait to try that myself!
I dunno… whole oranges in a cake? Seems weird. Aren’t you supposed to peel them first? 🤔
Whole oranges? Really?? Sounds weird but I might try it anyway. 🤔
Whole oranges? Sounds crazy but I bet it tastes awesome! Can’t wait to try it myself!
Mine sank slightly in the center. I measured flour with a cup (oops) so maybe I packed it. Next time I’ll weigh it and see.
Yummm!!! 5 stars! Just like my grandma used to make. Nostalgia overload!
Really? You make a cake with whole oranges? Seems kinda weird but maybe it’s good. Not so sure…
That sounds amazing! Can’t wait to try it myself. My mom used to make great cakes too!
This cake was a disaster for me! Burnt on the outside and raw on the inside. I’m not a great baker tho.
This is the kind of cake that looks homemade (in a good way). My kids kept asking for seconds. Definitely doing again.
This cake tastes amazing! I never thought to use whole oranges like this. Will make again!
This cake was amazing! I loved how the orange flavor really came through. Definitely a keeper!
I didn’t have eggs so I used applesauce instead. Not sure if that works, but cake tasted okay.
Not sure about “toothpick clean” because mine came out with a little orange-y batter. I waited anyway and it turned out gummy. Might need less orange or more baking.
I was skeptical about using whole oranges, but wow! This is a game-changer!
Tried making this, but I think my oranges were too thick. The cake came out dense, like a brick. Not sure what went wrong.
What? You put the whole orange in? I didn’t follow that part and just used orange juice. Cake came out fine but not orange-y enough.
Using juice instead of whole oranges? That’s interesting! I wonder if it affects the texture too much. Maybe try zest next time for more flavor?
Idk, seems weird to use whole oranges. Ain’t juice good enough? Think I’ll stick to my recipe. 🤷♂️
I dunno if boiling the oranges is such a good idea?? Like, wouldn’t it just make them mushy? 🤔
Made this for my kids and they loved it! Easy to follow and turned out great! 5 stars!
Whole orange? Really? Sounds weird. I’m not sure if I want to try this…😒
It actually sounds interesting! Whole oranges could add a unique flavor. Give it a try! 🍰
The ingredient list is simple, which I like. But 2 oranges can vary a lot—mine were small so I added 1 extra orange quarter and it worked.
This cake is simply delicious! I never thought I could bake a cake with whole oranges. It turned out so moist and flavorful. Will be making it again!
Took 60 minutes for my oven, toothpick came out clean. I let it cool the full way and it was way better sliced than the first piece I tried warm 😅
I tried it, and it rose beautifully, but I didn’t love how strong the citrus was. Maybe I’d cut the sugar next time or use smaller oranges.
So easy and delicious! I didn’t even need frosting, it was sweet enough! 💖
I totally agree! The natural sweetness of the oranges makes it so yummy! 🍊
Sounds good, but is it really sweet enough without frosting? I typically like mine with a bit more decoration. 🤔
So, I used lemon instead of oranges and it was a disaster! 😂
This cake is simply amazing!!! The orange flavor is so fresh and unique. My family loved it!
I’m glad to hear you loved the cake! The orange flavor really does make it special. I’m thinking of making it for a family gathering, any tips?
I dunno, sounds kinda weird to bake a whole orange in a cake. How does that even turn out? Not sure I’d try that.
I dunno, sounded weird to use whole oranges. But I tried it and WOW, it’s surprisingly good! Definitely making this again!
I tried frosting it with cream cheese and it was AMAZING. Next time I’ll add a little vanilla too. Great recipe—won’t lie.
I don’t get it. Cooking the oranges whole? Sounds strange! My cake turned out real flat, maybe I did something wrong.
Followed the recipe exactly but it didn’t rise much. Anyone else have this issue?
I followed it pretty closely but I think my blender couldn’t fully smooth the rind. Still tasty though—more “rustic” than smooth, but good orange flavor.
I tried making this, but my cake didn’t rise at all. Followed everything but it just sunk.
this was gross. I don’t think oranges belong in cake. Stick to chocolate.
I tried making this but forgot to blend the oranges. It was a bit chunky and not great. 😂
The cake was alright. I think I used too much oil, it was kinda greasy. Next time I’ll cut back.
Mine turned out a bit dense. I think I overmixed the batter after adding the flour? Also my oranges had more seeds than I expected even after checking…
Low effort review: cake was… cake. Didn’t taste like anything special to me.
Not gonna lie, I was skeptical about baking soda *and* baking powder. It rose really nicely anyway. Good call.
Delicious! Just a lil’ too sweet for my taste. Next time I’ll cut down the sugar a bit.
I think the sweetness is what makes it so good! But I get it, everyone’s taste is different.
Tried making it but the batter was kinda thick. Did I do something wrong? 😕
This seems way too much citrus for a cake. I tried it and it was like drinking straight orange. Maybe my oranges were extra sour? Kinda regret it.
I’m skeptical about blending the whole oranges—like the white parts might be bitter. Mine was slightly bitter until I added extra vanilla, but it still wasn’t bad.
Whole oranges?? That seems… wild. But I followed it and honestly it’s not bad at all. Texture is a bit dense compared to typical cakes, though.
I was skeptical too, but whole orange cakes are kinda magical. Dense makes sense though—more fruit pulp than flour. Did you grind it super smooth?
Whole oranges?? I mean… orange smoothie in cake form? 😅 I think I overcooked mine because it came out bitter. Next time I’ll only boil like 10 min and squeeze out some pulp maybe?
Overall good but I like it sweeter. Next time adding more sugar!
More sugar sounds great! I love sweet cakes too! Maybe try adding some icing on top as well for extra sweetness.
Really? I thought it was sweet enough. But hey, to each their own, I guess! Good luck with the sugar next time!
The 2 oranges measurement is confusing. Are they medium? Large? I used small navel oranges and my batter was thinner. Still baked fine, just different.
Not gonna lie, the ingredient list seems too simple? Like just eggs, flour, and orange, no milk or butter—how is it supposed to taste rich? It turned out fine though, just denser than I expected.
I totally get what you mean—when I first saw “just oranges, eggs, flour,” I thought it’d be flat. But the whole orange (including the pith) gives a ton of flavor and moisture. Denser makes sense though—more cake-bread vibe than fluffy sponge.
The flavor is awesome, but my texture was a bit dense. I think I overmixed after adding the flour. Next time I’ll mix less and see.
Same here! Flavor was bright and citrusy, but mine was a little heavy. I suspect I beat the flour too long too. Next time I’ll fold instead of mix.
Made this today—so good! The whole orange thing makes the cake super moist and fragrant. Mine took closer to 60 min, but toothpick came out clean. 100% keeping this recipe.
350°F is maybe too hot? Mine browned fast on top, almost before it set. I covered it with foil halfway through.