There’s something truly delightful about the sweet and tangy flavors of a classic Arizona Cake. This dessert is a perfect blend of refreshing citrus and moist cake layers that make it an ideal treat for any occasion, from afternoon tea to a weekend brunch. The combination of zesty lemon and juicy orange in this recipe creates a burst of sunshine in every bite, leaving you craving for more. Let’s dive into creating this Arizona Cake that will surely become a favorite in your home.
**Arizona Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Juice of 1 orange
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the lemon and orange zest to infuse the batter with citrusy flavors.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the citrus syrup. In a small saucepan, heat the lemon juice, orange juice, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and set aside.
9. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
10. Using a skewer or fork, poke holes all over the cake’s surface.
11. Pour the citrus syrup over the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and infuse the cake with extra moisture and flavor.
12. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before dusting the top with powdered sugar.
13. Slice the Arizona Cake into squares or rectangles and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Arizona Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that captures the essence of sunny days and joyful moments. The combination of citrusy flavors and tender cake is sure to brighten up any gathering or simply add a touch of sweetness to your day. Enjoy the process of baking this delightful treat and savor each bite filled with the vibrant taste of lemon and orange.
