Orange Butter Cake

2 ¼ c. unbleached all-purpose flour

1 ½ c. sugar

Zest of one washed orange

3 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 ¼ c. milk

2/3 c. butter

1 tsp. vanilla

2 tbsp. orange juice from orange

5 egg whites

INSTRUCTIONS:

Heat oven to 350° F.

Grease and flour 2 9-inch round pans,

Beat butter and sugar till light, add zest, orange juice and vanilla and beat thoroughly.

In separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt.

Lightly whisk the egg whites in a third bowl for 1 minute.

Add flour and milk alternatively to the sugar mixture, starting and ending with the flour.

Beat in egg whites till homogeneous about 2 minutes, scraping sides of bowl.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Use a toothpick to assure yourself it is well baked.

Cool and use with your favorite filling and icing!