How to Make a Simple and Fluffy Orange Cake
The orange cake is a true delight that combines the citrusy, refreshing flavor of the fruit with the sweetness of the batter. It’s a classic in baking that pleases many palates.
In this recipe, we will explore the versatility of this cake by talking about different toppings that can make it even more special. Also, I will give you a super easy recipe to follow so you can make it at home.
Table of Contents
The Unique Flavor of Orange Cake:
Orange cake has a distinctive, unmistakable flavor. The orange adds a citrusy and refreshing touch, which perfectly contrasts with the sweetness of the batter. The presence of the fruit in the recipe not only adds flavor but also helps keep the cake moist and soft.
Orange Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of orange juice
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- Zest of one orange (optional)
Preparation Method:
- First, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round pan of about 23 cm (9 inches) in diameter with butter and flour.
- Then, in a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you get a light and fluffy mixture.
- Next, add the orange juice and oil to the egg and sugar mixture, and mix well.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, sifting it to avoid lumps. Stir gently until the batter is smooth.
- Add the orange zest to the batter and mix again (optional).
- Add the baking powder and gently mix until it is fully incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cake is golden and firm to the touch.
- Perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Otherwise, bake for a few more minutes.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before unmolding. Then, transfer it to a serving plate.
Chocolate Topping for Orange Cake
Ingredients:
- 200g of semi-sweet chocolate
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of butter
Preparation Method:
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the semi-sweet chocolate together with the heavy cream, stirring constantly with a spoon until the mixture is homogeneous.
- Next, add the butter, stirring well until it melts and the topping becomes shiny.
- Then remove from heat and let the chocolate topping cool slightly before using it on the cake.
- Pour the topping over the orange cake, gently spreading it with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Allow the chocolate topping to set before serving.
Orange Topping:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Orange zest for garnish (optional)
Preparation Method:
- First, in a saucepan, mix the fresh orange juice, cornstarch, and sugar. Stir well to dissolve the cornstarch.
- Then bring the pan to medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and reaches a syrupy consistency.
- Then remove from heat and add the butter, stirring until it is completely melted.
- Let the orange topping cool slightly before using it on the cake.
- Pour the topping over the orange cake, gently spreading it with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
- Decorate the cake with orange zest if desired, to add an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Golden Tips – Orange Cake
- Sift the dry ingredients: When adding the flour and baking powder to the batter, be sure to sift them. This will help remove lumps and result in a lighter, airier batter.
- Do not overbeat: When mixing the ingredients, do not overbeat the batter, only enough to incorporate all the ingredients. Overbeating can result in a denser cake.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Remove the eggs and butter from the fridge in advance so they are at room temperature. Room temperature ingredients combine better, resulting in a more uniform batter.
- Do not open the oven during baking: While the cake is baking, avoid opening the oven to check on it. This can cause a sudden drop in temperature and affect the proper rise of the cake.
- Perform the toothpick test: To check if the cake is done, use the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the cake is baked. Otherwise, let it bake for a few more minutes.
- Let the cake cool before unmolding: After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before unmolding. This will help prevent the cake from breaking or sticking to the pan.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store the orange cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate the cake to extend its shelf life, but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to ensure the best texture.
So I hope you liked it!
With love,
Nate
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Hope you enjoyed it.
With love,
Nate