Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350F.

2. 2

   Grease and lightly flour loaf pans.

3. 3

   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

4. 4

   Measure buttermilk, orange juice, and vanilla into a measuring cup. Set aside.

5. 5

   In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the butter until creamy.

6. 6

   Blend in sugar and beat for a few minutes until light and fluffy.

7. 7

   Mix in eggs, one at a time, and orange zest, and beat until well incorporated.

8. 8

   With mixer on low, slowly pour in 1/3 of the flour mixture.

9. 9

   Mix in half of the buttermilk mixture.

10. 10

    Blend in another 1/3 of the flour mixture and remaining buttermilk mixture.

11. 11

    Add remaining flour mixture and mix until just blended.

12. 12

    Divide batter between prepared pans, filling about 3/4 full, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes (45 minutes if using a large loaf pan) or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

13. 13

    While loaves bake, prepare orange simple syrup.

14. 14

    Stir together 1/2 cup orange juice and 1/2 cup brown sugar in a small pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat while occasionally stirring, then reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes.

15. 15

    Remove pot from heat and set aside to cool.

16. 16

    When cakes are done, cool for 10 minutes before turning out onto wire rack. Set rack over a sheet pan or piece of foil, and using a brush or a spoon, soak each cake with simple syrup. Allow to cool completely.

17. 17

    Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly.