Grandma’s Orange Sponge Cake – Moist, Fluffy & Timeless

A light and airy sponge cake made with fresh orange juice, sunflower oil, and vanilla — this nostalgic Spanish recipe is a comforting slice of home.

Perfectly golden, with a soft crumb and delicate citrus aroma — this cake is ideal for tea time or Sunday brunch.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs

• 125 ml fresh orange juice

• 200 ml sunflower oil

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• 100 ml milk

• A pinch of salt

• 370 g granulated sugar

• 1 packet baking powder (approx. 16 g)

• 375 g cake flour (or sifted all-purpose flour)

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• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 orange

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Oven and Pan

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

• Grease and flour a Bundt pan or round cake mold.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy.

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• Slowly add the oil, milk, and orange juice, mixing gently.

• Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.

3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

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

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until smooth and fully combined.

4. Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

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• Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

 Serving Suggestions

• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light orange glaze.

• Enjoy with coffee, tea, or a glass of fresh orange juice.

• Pairs wonderfully with a side of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt.

Tips & Troubleshooting

 Cake cracked on top?

That’s completely normal for sponge cakes and adds a rustic charm!

Cake too dry?

 Don’t overbake. Check doneness around the 45-minute mark.

 Want stronger orange flavor?

 Add a few drops of orange extract or increase the zest.

 FAQs

1. Can I store this cake for later?
Yes! Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to 7.

2. Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — replace milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

 Final Thoughts

This Grandma’s Orange Sponge Cake is more than a dessert — it’s a slice of tradition, full of warmth and comfort.

Easy to make and even easier to love, it’s the kind of cake that brings families together and fills your home with the smell of sweet citrus and nostalgia.