Orange Sunshine Loaf Cake featuring 1st Day of Autumn seasoning

The days are short, the air is crisp, and winter is in full swing. But who says we have to wait for summer to enjoy a little sunshine? This Orange Sunshine Loaf Cake is proof that we can bring a burst of warmth and brightness to our tables—even on the coldest days.

This cake isn’t just about citrus flavor; it’s about embracing everything that makes winter special. The whole orange—peel and all—gets blended into the batter, giving the loaf a deep, rich aroma. And with a touch of 1st Day of Autumn, the blend of warming spices brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. It’s like a cozy hug in dessert form!

Why This Cake Works

🍊 Whole Orange Magic: Blending the entire fruit gives this cake a bold citrus kick, with a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness.🍂 Warm Spices: 1st Day of Autumn enhances the orange with cinnamon, nutmeg, and hints of earthy warmth.🔥 Quick & Easy: Everything goes into the blender—no extra mixing bowls or hand-whisking required!

But what makes this cake truly irresistible? A silky, spiced Orange Cream Cheese Icing that takes it to the next level. The tangy cream cheese, a hint of orange zest, and a pinch of 1st Day of Autumn create the perfect balance of bright, creamy, and cozy.

Ways to Enjoy It

With a hot cup of tea or coffee
Lightly toasted with a slather of butter
Topped with a honey-orange glaze for extra indulgence

Orange Sunshine Loaf Cake

Bright citrus flavors with a cozy spice twist

Ingredients:

1 whole orange (skin on, seeds removed)
4 large eggs
½ cup oil (neutral oil like vegetable or canola)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
¾ tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon 1st Day of Autumn seasoning blend
A drizzle of lemon juice

Instructions:

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf or bundt pan.
Blend: Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender (Ninja or similar). Blend until completely smooth and well combined. The sharp blades will break down the orange peel, giving the cake a rich, citrusy depth.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes, check to see if it is done, if not, put back in the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Orange Cream Cheese Icing

🍊 Creamy, tangy, and just the right touch of citrus!

Ingredients:

4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon orange zest (from a fresh orange)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon 1st Day of Autumn seasoning blend
1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (for desired consistency)

Instructions:

Whip It Up: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
Add Sweetness: Gradually mix in powdered sugar, then add orange zest, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon 1st Day of Autumn seasoning and fresh orange juice.
Adjust Consistency: Add 1 tablespoon of milk or heavy cream at a time until the icing is smooth and pourable (for a drizzle) or thick and spreadable (for frosting).
Top Your Cake: Once your Orange Sunshine Loaf Cake is cooled, drizzle or spread the icing on top. Let it slightly set before slicing.