How to Make a Deliciously Zesty Orange and Almond Cake
If you are in the mood to try something new and delightfully different in your kitchen, how about whipping up a Zesty Orange and Almond Cake? This cake brings together the tangy brightness of oranges and the nutty richness of almonds in a way that’s sure to impress. Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it also comes with the bonus of filling your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma. The best part? It’s straightforward to make. Let’s walk through the steps together.
Ingredients:
To get started, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large oranges
- 3 cups of ground almonds (or almond flour)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 6 large eggs
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Equipment:
- A large pot
- A food processor or blender
- A mixing bowl
- A 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
Step-By-Step Guide:
1. Getting the Oranges Ready:
Start by placing the oranges in a large pot and fill it with enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and let the oranges simmer for about 2 hours. This process softens the oranges and removes any bitterness. After they are done, take them out and allow them to cool, then chop them into pieces (you can remove any seeds at this stage).
2. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
While your oranges are cooling down, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper. This helps ensure your cake doesn’t stick to the pan.
3. Making the Cake Batter:
Take the cooled, chopped oranges and put them in a food processor or blender. Blend until you get a smooth puree. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Add the orange puree, ground almonds, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Baking the Cake:
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If the top of the cake starts to brown too much while baking, gently cover it with aluminum foil.
5. Cooling and Serving:
Once the cake is done, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. If you like, you can dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
And there you have it! A beautifully moist and zesty Orange and Almond Cake that’s sure to become a new favorite. Serve it as a delightful end to a meal or enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a scrumptious snack.
Tips for Success:
- Use Organic Oranges if Possible: Since this recipe uses the whole orange (peel and all), organic oranges are preferable as they are less likely to have been treated with pesticides.
- Almond Flour vs. Ground Almonds: While you can use store-bought almond flour, ground almonds made by processing whole almonds in a food processor can give your cake a more textured crumb.
- Check Your Cake Early: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake for doneness around the 45-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
This Zesty Orange and Almond Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also a wonderful way to introduce delightful new flavors and textures into your baking repertoire. Its moist texture, bright citrusy flavor, and the rich nuttiness of almonds combine to create a truly special dessert. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – happy baking!
