No-Mixer Orange Streusel Cake with Cinnamon Crumb Topping

Prep: 15 minCook: 45 min1 cakemedium
No-Mixer Orange Streusel Cake with Cinnamon Crumb Topping

A simple, moist cake that requires no mixer or special equipment. Orange juice adds citrusy brightness to the tender crumb, while a buttery cinnamon streusel topping creates delightful texture contrast. The batter comes together quickly by hand, making this perfect for casual baking when you want homestyle results without fuss. Optional raisins add chewy sweetness throughout. Great for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend treats.

Ingredients

Yield: 1 cake
  • 3 cups flour
  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup orange juice
    apple juice1:1none

    milder fruit flavor

    Full guide →
  • ¾ cup oil
    melted butter1:1vegetarianadds dairy

    creates richer flavor

    Full guide →
  • 1 handful raisins(optional)
    dried cranberries1:1none

    tartness instead of sweetness

    Full guide →
  • ½ cup sugar, for topping
  • 3 tablespoons flour, for topping
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • ¼ cup margarine
    butter1:1vegetarianadds dairy

    use butter for richer flavor

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit

  2. 2

    Combine flour, sugar, and baking powder in a medium bowl

  3. 3

    In a second bowl, combine eggs, juice, and oil

  4. 4

    Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients and mix well

  5. 5

    Add the raisins and pour the batter into baking pan

  6. 6

    Combine topping ingredients until crumbly

  7. 7

    Sprinkle topping over batter in pan

  8. 8

    Bake for 30-35 minutes

Tips

Tip 1

Use room temperature eggs and orange juice for easier mixing and better incorporation into the batter.

Tip 2

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center - it should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Good to Know

Storage

Cover and store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Make Ahead

Can be made 1 day ahead - flavors actually improve overnight as the cake settles.

Serve With

Serve at room temperature, cut into squares. Pairs well with coffee or tea.

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overmix the batter to avoid tough cake texture.

Watch

Ensure topping is evenly distributed to avoid bare spots.

Substitutions

margarine
butter1:1vegetarianadds dairy

use butter for richer flavor

Full guide →
oil
melted butter1:1vegetarianadds dairy

creates richer flavor

Full guide →
orange juice
apple juice1:1none

milder fruit flavor

Full guide →
raisins
dried cranberries1:1none

tartness instead of sweetness

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of store-bought?

Yes, fresh orange juice works perfectly and may give even better flavor. Strain out any pulp if you prefer a smoother cake texture.

What if I don't have an 11x14 inch pan?

Use a 9x13 inch pan but reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes, or use two 8-inch round pans and bake for 20-25 minutes.

How do I know when the streusel topping is done?

The topping should be golden brown and the cake should spring back lightly when touched in the center.