Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Creaming for Volume
Preheat your oven to 180°C. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by the orange zest.
2. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk or yogurt. Mix until just combined—overmixing at this stage can lead to a tough, dense loaf.
3. The Golden Bake
Pour the batter into a greased loaf tin. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be a beautiful deep golden brown.
4. The “Soak” Method
While the cake is baking, simmer the orange juice and sugar in a small pan until the sugar dissolves. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, poke small holes across the top with a toothpick and pour the syrup over the warm loaf. This creates the moist, glazed texture seen in the photo.
