Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for a delicious Orange Cake that has quickly become a favorite in my family. This cake is not only bursting with citrus flavor but also incredibly moist and easy to make. It reminds me of the sunny afternoons I spent at my grandmother’s house, where the sweet aroma of freshly baked cakes would fill the air.
One summer, I visited a charming little town in Florida known for its orange groves. The vibrant, juicy oranges we picked during that trip inspired me to experiment with citrus in my baking. This orange cake recipe is a result of those culinary adventures. It’s a perfect way to showcase the natural sweetness and zest of oranges, making it a hit at family gatherings and potlucks.
The best part about this cake is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients – eggs, almond flour, sugar, and fresh oranges – you can create a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. The process of boiling the oranges three times might seem a bit unusual, but it’s essential for achieving the right texture and removing any bitterness from the peel. The result is a marmalade-like mixture that blends beautifully into the batter, giving the cake its signature flavor.
I love the versatility of this recipe. You can easily tweak it to suit your taste. For instance, if you prefer a bit of crunch, try adding some slivered almonds on top before baking. Or, for a more indulgent twist, serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this Orange Cake is sure to bring a smile to your face and brighten your day.
How to Make Orange Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pound oranges
- 2 1/2 cups almond flour (or almond meal)
Directions
- Put unpeeled oranges in a pot. Add water to cover them and bring to a boil. Boil for 10 minutes, then drain. Repeat this twice more.
- Once boiled three times, let the oranges cool. When they are cool enough, cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the chopped oranges into a food processor or blender and blend until the mixture resembles marmalade.
- Set your oven to 320°F. Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining it with baking paper on the bottom and sides.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar. Add the orange mixture, almond flour, and baking powder. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the lined cake pan. Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing and serving.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of flour instead of almond flour for the orange cake?
Yes, you can substitute almond flour with another type of flour, such as all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour. However, the texture and flavor might change slightly. If using all-purpose flour, reduce the amount to about 2 cups and monitor the consistency of the batter.
What is the purpose of boiling the oranges three times in the recipe?
Boiling the oranges three times helps to remove the bitterness from the peel and pith. This process ensures that the orange flavor in the cake is sweet and pleasant without any harsh or bitter aftertaste.
Can I prepare the orange mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the orange mixture in advance. After blending the boiled oranges into a marmalade-like consistency, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What should I do if the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly?
If the top of the cake begins to brown too quickly during baking, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning. This will allow the cake to continue baking without over-browning the top.
Can I add any additional flavors or ingredients to the orange cake?
Absolutely! You can add flavors such as vanilla extract or almond extract to enhance the taste. Additionally, you can mix in some chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to add texture and variety to the cake.
How should I store the orange cake, and how long will it stay fresh?
The orange cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to three months; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Orange Cake
Ingredients
- 5 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups almond flour or almond meal
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 pound oranges
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Place unpeeled oranges in a saucepan. Cover them with water and bring it to a boil. Boil the oranges for 10 minutes and drain. Repeat this process twice more.
- After the third boil, let the oranges cool down. Once they're cool enough to handle, chop the oranges into 1-inch pieces.
- Add the chopped oranges into a food processor or high-power blender and blend until you get a marmalade-like mixture.
- Preheat your oven to 320F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with baking paper, covering both the bottom and sides.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together. Then add the orange mixture, almond flour, and baking powder. Stir until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
