Instant Pot Orange Cake Recipe

If you’re ready to experience citrusy bliss in a way that’s quick, fuss-free, and irresistibly moist, this Instant Pot Orange Cake Recipe is calling your name. Imagine bright, zesty orange flavors infused in a soft, tender cake, all whipped up with just a handful of simple ingredients and a handy Instant Pot. It’s the perfect treat for any time you crave a sweet, tangy dessert without the usual oven wait. Trust me, once you try this, your dessert game will never be the same!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Instant Pot Orange Cake Recipe celebrates simplicity without compromising flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building structure, adding moisture, or lending that signature citrus sparkle.

• 1 orange cake mix box: The foundation of the cake, bringing in the classic orange flavor and perfect texture.
• 1 cup water (for batter): Hydrates the cake mix to create a smooth batter with the right consistency.
• 3 large eggs: Adds richness and helps the cake rise beautifully.
• 1/3 cup canola oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist, ensuring every bite is soft.
• 1 cup water (for Instant Pot): Necessary for creating pressure and steam to cook the cake evenly.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The secret to a sweet, delicate glaze that complements the citrus perfectly.
• 3-4 tablespoons milk: Balances the glaze and makes it silky smooth.
• Zest of an orange: Intensifies the fresh orange aroma and flavor in the glaze.

How to Make Instant Pot Orange Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pan

Start by greasing all sides of your cake pan thoroughly. This step is essential to ensure your cake pops right out once it’s cooked, keeping those beautiful sides intact without any sticking.

Step 2: Add Water to Instant Pot

Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot insert. This will create the steam needed for pressure cooking. Without this crucial addition, the magic of your Instant Pot won’t work its wonders on your cake.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a bowl, beat together the orange cake mix, 1 cup water, 1/3 cup canola oil, and 3 whole eggs. Make sure everything is combined well but avoid overmixing—this balances a tender crumb with just the right structure.

Step 4: Pour Batter into Cake Pan

Transfer your smooth batter into the greased cake pan, giving it a little shake to spread it evenly. This simple move helps your cake cook uniformly inside the Instant Pot.

Step 5: Cover with Paper Towel

Place a paper towel over the top of the cake pan gently. This clever trick absorbs condensation and prevents water droplets from messing up the cake’s surface, keeping it picture-perfect.

Step 6: Seal Paper Towel with Foil

Wrap a piece of aluminum foil around the rim of the pan, securing the paper towel. This extra layer acts like a shield to keep moisture out, so your cake bakes with the perfect texture.

Step 7: Set Cake Pan on Trivet

Place the cake pan carefully on the Instant Pot’s trivet, then lower the trivet into the pot. This elevates the pan above the water and ensures even cooking from all sides.

Step 8: Cook Your Cake

Press the “Cake” button, select the “Less” mode, and set the cook time for 50 minutes. This setting is ideal for gently baking your orange cake to fluffy perfection without drying it out.

Step 9: Natural Pressure Release

Once cooking is complete, let the Instant Pot release its pressure naturally. This slow release helps the cake finish cooking gently and prevents any sinking or cracking.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. This glaze adds a luscious, sweet finish that complements the orange flavor.

Step 11: Add Orange Zest to Glaze

Stir in the zest of one orange to the glaze for an extra punch of citrus aroma and flavor. This simple addition makes your glaze fragrant and uniquely fresh.

Step 12: Glaze the Cake

Pour the glaze over the cooled cake and let it sit until the glaze hardens slightly. This final touch seals in moisture and delivers a perfectly sweet, glossy top.

Step 13: Slice and Enjoy

Cut into generous slices and savor every bite of your homemade Instant Pot Orange Cake. It’s an absolute treat that brings sunshine to your dessert table!

How to Serve Instant Pot Orange Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A little garnish can elevate the experience. Try sprinkling extra orange zest or freshly chopped mint leaves on top of the glaze. For a festive touch, add candied orange peel or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with light accompaniments like vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries or a citrus fruit salad make wonderful, refreshing contrasts to the cake’s tender crumb.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve slices on colorful plates with a sprig of rosemary or edible flowers. You can also cut the cake into mini squares and serve them alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick snacks or a sweet breakfast treat.

Freezing

If you want to save the cake for longer, freeze it! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. When stored properly, your Instant Pot Orange Cake Recipe will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To enjoy your cake warm, simply leave frozen slices out to thaw or microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds. The warmth will revive the orange aroma and melt the glaze slightly for a delightful treat.

FAQs

Can I use homemade orange cake batter instead of the cake mix?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with the convenience of a box mix, using homemade batter works beautifully too. Just adjust the liquid ratios and cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have canola oil? Can I substitute it?

You can swap canola oil for other neutral oils like vegetable or grapeseed oil. For a richer flavor, light olive oil or melted butter can also work well in the batter.

Is it necessary to use a trivet in the Instant Pot?

Yes, the trivet keeps the cake pan elevated above the water for proper steam circulation and even cooking. Without it, the cake might get soggy or cook unevenly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, start with a gluten-free orange cake mix and ensure all other ingredients meet gluten-free standards. The cooking process remains the same.

How can I tell if the cake is done inside the Instant Pot?

Since opening the Instant Pot right away releases pressure, rely on the recommended cooking time and natural release. To double-check, you can insert a toothpick after opening—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Orange Cake Recipe is a total game changer when you want a quick, flavorful dessert that feels homemade with minimal effort. It’s vibrant, moist, and perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging yourself on a cozy afternoon. Give it a try—you’ll find that this simple orange cake might just become your new favorite sweet treat!

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