This Easy Orange Cake is a light, fluffy dessert that bursts with the refreshing flavor of fresh oranges. The addition of a creamy orange topping makes this cake irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, it’s simple to prepare and delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and citrus tang.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 eggs
- A little salt
- 150 grams of sugar
- 8 grams of vanilla sugar
- 80 ml of oil
- 90 ml of orange juice
- 200 grams of flour
- 15 grams of baking powder
For the Orange Cream:
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 250 ml of orange juice
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Beat the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 eggs with a pinch of salt until they become frothy and slightly increased in volume. This will help create a light and airy cake.
Add Sugar and Vanilla Sugar
Next, add 150 grams of sugar and 8 grams of vanilla sugar to the beaten eggs. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Add Oil and Orange Juice
Pour in 80 ml of oil and 90 ml of fresh orange juice. Stir the mixture until fully combined. The oil will help keep the cake moist, while the orange juice adds a refreshing citrus flavor.
Add Flour and Baking Powder
Gradually sift 200 grams of flour and 15 grams of baking powder into the bowl. Mix the ingredients gently with a spatula or hand mixer until a smooth batter forms.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) to ensure it’s at the correct temperature when you place the cake inside.
Pour the Batter into a Mold
Grease an 18 x 27 cm cake pan (or any similar-sized pan) to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the prepared batter into the pan and spread it evenly.
Bake
Place the cake in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check the cake’s doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool.
Step 3: Make the Orange Cream
Prepare the Orange Cream
In a saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 250 ml of fresh orange juice. Whisk them together until smooth.
Cook the Cream
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens and becomes smooth. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Serve the Cake
Spread the Cream
Once the cake has cooled, spread the orange cream evenly over the top of the cake. The cream should be slightly warm but not hot, so it doesn’t melt into the cake too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
- Pair the cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Eggs: For a fluffier and more consistent texture, make sure the eggs are at room temperature before you start.
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: Use fresh orange juice instead of bottled juice for the best flavor. It adds a natural sweetness and tanginess.
- Cool the Cake Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the orange cream on top. This will prevent the cream from melting into the cake and maintain its smooth texture.
- Fluffier Cake: If you want an even fluffier cake, sift the dry ingredients together before adding them to the wet ingredients.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oranges: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, oranges support immune health and skin vitality.
- Eggs: A great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals that help with muscle repair and overall health.
- Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats that contribute to heart health and provide long-lasting energy.
Dietary Information
- Contains: Dairy, eggs, and gluten.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: You can reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it warm.
FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but the cake will still taste delicious.
Can I use a different fruit for the cream?
While the recipe calls for orange juice, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a tangier twist. Keep in mind that the flavor of the cream will change depending on the fruit.
Can I use store-bought orange juice?
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to use freshly squeezed orange juice. However, if you need to use store-bought juice, choose one that is 100% pure without added sugars or preservatives.
How can I make this cake even more flavorful?
For an added citrus kick, you can zest an orange and mix the zest into the batter. This will give the cake an extra burst of orange flavor.
Conclusion
This Easy Orange Cake is a light and refreshing dessert with a creamy orange topping. Whether you enjoy it on a warm afternoon or at a family gathering, this cake is sure to be a hit. Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a delightful combination of flavors make it a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy!