Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake Recipe

One winter afternoon, I was hanging out at home, feeling warm and comfortable. I decided to look through some old recipe books, and suddenly, my eyes landed on a special recipe – Brenda Gantt’s Orange Slice Cake.

I remember the first time I made this cake. I was surprised by how different it was! The orange slices, coconut, and pecans made a mix of flavors that was totally unique. Most cakes are just sweet, but this one was something special. Today, I wanted to make it for my family and share that special taste.

Every time I bake this cake, it’s like I’m bringing a little piece of our family history into the kitchen. It reminds me of happy times and how food can connect us. Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most precious ones. I highly encourage you to try to make this Brenda Gantt’s Orange Slice Cake Recipe yourself.

What Is Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake Recipe?

The Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake recipe is a cherished Southern dessert famous for its rich flavor and unique combination of ingredients. This cake gets its name from the use of orange slice candies, which melt beautifully during baking, giving the cake a distinct citrusy sweetness. Combined with shredded coconut, chopped dates, and crunchy pecans, it’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors.

The recipe uses buttermilk and baking soda to give the batter a light, tender crumb, while the slow baking process at a low temperature ensures the cake stays moist. This isn’t just any cake – it’s a special recipe from Brenda Gantt that people love to make during holidays and big family parties.

Why You’ll Love Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake

I promise, this cake is a little slice of heaven! It’s rich, moist, and full of sweet, citrusy flavor. Every bite brings back memories of homemade goodness and family gatherings. The chewy orange slices, crunchy pecans, and hint of coconut make it extra special. It’s not just a dessert—it’s comfort food that warms the heart. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

What Is in Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake?

Ingredients for the Batter:

• 1 cup salted butter (softened)
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp baking soda

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (White Lily preferred)
• 1 lb. orange slice candy (cut into small pieces, coated in flour)
• 2 cups shredded coconut
• 1 lb. chopped dates
• 2 cups chopped pecans

Substitution Ideas for Orange Slice Cake

1. Orange Slice Candy: Try gummy orange candies or candied orange peel.
2. Buttermilk: Make your own by mixing ½ cup milk with 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Pecans: Swap with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
4. Dates: Substitute with raisins or dried cranberries.

Kitchen Tools

• Mixer: A stand mixer works best, but if you have a hand mixer, that’s fine too. We’ll use it to cream the butter and sugar.
• Big Bowls: You’ll need a couple of large bowls—one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry ones.
• Baking Pan: A tube pan or Bundt pan is perfect. To make sure the cake doesn’t stick, I recommend lining the bottom with parchment paper.
• Knife: You’ll need this for chopping the pecans, dates, and orange slice candies.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get the ingredients just right!
• Oven: Your oven set at 250°F is going to help this cake bake slowly to perfection.

How to Make Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake Recipe

Step 1  | Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 2 | Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed before adding the next.

Step 3 | Prepare Buttermilk Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk and baking soda. Stir well and let it foam up before adding it to the butter mixture.

Step 4 | Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix flour with orange candy pieces, coconut, chopped dates, and pecans. Coat everything well with flour to prevent sinking.

Step 5 | Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture. The batter will be thick—mix until just combined.

Step 6 | Prepare the Pan

Grease and flour a tube pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper for extra protection.

Step 7 | Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 8 | Bake

Bake at 250°F for 2 ½ to 3 hours. Use a toothpick to check – it should come out clean when the cake is done.

Step 9 | Cool

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing it.

Special Tips From The Chef

• Flour Coating: Tossing the orange candies and other mix-ins in flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
• Low Temperature: Baking at 250°F ensures the cake stays moist and cooks evenly. Check cake after 2.5 hours to prevent overcooking
• Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil—it actually tastes better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.

How to Serve Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake

This cake shines on its own, but it’s even better with a little something extra! I love serving it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy touch. A hot cup of coffee or sweet tea makes the perfect pairing too. If you’re hosting, it’s a lovely dessert to enjoy after a hearty meal.

How to Store Orange Slice Cake

1. Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
2. Refrigeration: Keeps for up to 2 weeks in the fridge—wrap tightly to prevent drying.
3. Freezing: Slice the cake and freeze individual portions. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake actually gets better after a day or two. The flavors meld together, creating an even more delicious dessert. Just wrap it tightly and store at room temperature.

2. What if I can’t find orange slice candy?

No worries! You can substitute with candied orange peel or even use dried orange segments. The key is to maintain that sweet, citrusy element.

3. Is this cake very sweet?

It’s definitely a sweet cake, but the pecans and dates help balance the sweetness. If you prefer less sweet, you can reduce the sugar slightly.

4. How long does the cake take to bake?

The cake requires a long, slow bake – about 2½ to 3 hours at a low temperature of 250°F. This helps create its unique, dense texture.

5. Can I use a different type of pan?

A tube pan works best, but you could use a bundt pan. Just watch the baking time and adjust as needed.

6. How do I know when the cake is done?

Use the toothpick method. Insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.

7. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

8. What makes this cake different from other fruit cakes?

The combination of orange slice candy, pecans, dates, and coconut creates a unique flavor profile you won’t find in typical fruit cakes.

9. Is this a traditional holiday cake?

While perfect for holidays, this cake is delicious any time of year. It’s versatile enough for family gatherings or just a special treat.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Brenda Gantt Orange Slice Cake a try! It’s one of those cakes that’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying all by yourself with a warm cup of tea. The sweet orange slice candy, paired with the richness of coconut and dates, makes this cake really special. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

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