Italian Orange Cake

Italian Orange Cake

Ingredients

To create this mouth-watering Italian orange cake, you’ll need the following ingredients. Let’s start with the essentials for the cake, including the preparation of candied oranges.

Candied Oranges

• ¾ cup water
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 medium (~10 ounces) oranges, sliced into ⅛-¼ inch slices

Orange Cake

• 2 medium oranges
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 tablespoons plain yogurt, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious Italian orange cake that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Sicilian oranges.

Candied Oranges:

Prepare the Syrup: Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. This process not only dissolves the sugar but also begins to transform it into a thick, sweet syrup.

Simmer Oranges: Reduce heat to medium-low, add the orange slices, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often to ensure even soaking and flavor absorption.

Cool: Turn off the heat, allowing them to cool until you can handle the slices. This cooling period helps the syrup to set and intensifies the flavor of the oranges.

Prep:

1.Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring that it reaches the correct temperature for even baking.

2.Prepare the Pan: Spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. This setup is crucial for a smooth release after baking.

3.Process Oranges: Zest two oranges, remove the white pith, and cut into small pieces. Pulse in a food processor until they reach an applesauce-like consistency, a step that ensures the oranges integrate seamlessly into the batter, providing consistent citrus flavor in every bite.

Mix and Bake the Cake:

1.Whip Eggs and Sugar: In a stand mixer, whip the eggs and sugar until they are pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. This step is key to incorporating air into the batter, contributing to a light texture.

2.Add Olive Oil: Slowly stream in the olive oil with the mixer running, adding a silky richness to the batter.

3.Combine Dry Ingredients: Add flour, kosher salt, nutmeg, and baking powder. Mix gently to maintain the airiness.

4.Incorporate Yogurt and Flavorings: Add the yogurt while mixing, followed by vanilla and the pulsed orange mixture, ensuring a well-combined batter that bakes evenly.

5.Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan over the arranged orange slices. Bake for 47-57 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness as ovens may vary in temperature.

6.Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before removing it, ensuring structural integrity and preventing crumbling.

Glaze and Serve:

1.Optional Glaze: Brush any remaining syrup on the cake for a beautiful sheen that enhances both appearance and flavor.

2.Serve: Slice and serve your homemade Italian orange cake, possibly alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of confectioners’ sugar for an elegant finish.

Serving Tips for Italian Orange Cake:

1. Temperature Matters

Serve at Room Temperature: Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes if it has been refrigerated. This ensures the flavors are at their peak and the texture is soft and inviting.

2. Presentation is Key

Use a Cake Stand: Elevate your presentation by placing the cake on a decorative cake stand. This not only makes it visually appealing but also adds a touch of elegance to your table setting.

Garnish Thoughtfully: Add a few thin slices of fresh oranges or candied orange zest on top for a pop of color and extra citrus aroma. A sprinkling of powdered sugar can give a graceful, snow-dusted effect.

3. Complementary Flavors

Whipped Cream or Gelato: Serve slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla or orange gelato. The creamy texture complements the moist cake beautifully.

Fresh Fruit: Accompany the cake with a small side of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness contrasts nicely with the sweet, citrusy cake

4.Pairing Suggestions

Coffee or Espresso: The rich notes of a freshly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso enhance the cake’s flavors, making it an ideal dessert pairing, especially after a meal.

Tea: Consider serving with a pot of Earl Grey or chamomile tea. The floral and citrus elements in these teas bring out the cake’s aromatic qualities.

Storage Instructions:

Proper storage of your Italian orange cake ensures it stays fresh and maintains its delectable flavor. After cooling, wrap the cake in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your environment is particularly warm or humid, consider refrigerating the cake, and always remove it from the fridge at least 45 minutes before serving to enjoy it at its best flavor and texture. For extended storage, freeze the cake to preserve its freshness, making sure to thaw it thoroughly before serving to retain its full flavor and moisture.