Orange and candied fruit cake, fasting
Orange and Candied Fruit Cake – A Flavorful Vegan Delight
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Welcome to the wonderful world of cooking! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for an orange and candied fruit cake, a simple and delicious vegan dessert perfect for indulging on warm days or whenever you crave something sweet. This recipe has been lovingly adapted from Mrs. Iancu Lubita, also known as Lulu, from her famous "Kitchen Tales." Get ready for a culinary experience full of flavor and aroma!
Ingredients needed
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/3 cup of oil (preferably sunflower oil or a mix of olive oil and sunflower oil)
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1-2 tablespoons of orange essence (to taste)
- Candied fruits (cranberries, candied cherries, or candied orange peel)
A brief history of the recipe
Cake is a versatile dish found in various forms across many cultures. Over time, it has evolved from a simple moist bread to a sophisticated dessert rich in flavors. Today, I will show you how to transform a classic cake into a vegan version, adding a touch of freshness with orange juice and candied fruits. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also serves as a perfect example of how we can adapt culinary traditions to current needs.
Step-by-step preparation
1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential for ensuring even baking of the cake.
2. Mixing the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, add one cup of sugar and pour in the freshly squeezed orange juice. Use a whisk or fork to mix the two ingredients until the sugar is completely dissolved in the juice. It’s important to use freshly squeezed juice to achieve an intense orange flavor.
3. Adding oil and essence
Once the sugar has dissolved, gradually add 1/3 cup of oil and the orange essence. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. The oil will add moisture and a soft texture to the cake.
4. Combining the dry ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the two cups of flour and the packet of baking powder. This step will help eliminate lumps and ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed in the batter, contributing to even baking.
5. Merging the ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or whisk to incorporate the flour, mixing gently and steadily until there are no lumps left. It’s crucial not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense and dry cake.
6. Adding the candied fruits
Finally, fold in the candied fruits, such as cranberries or cherries, into the batter. They not only add a burst of color but also provide an interesting texture to the dessert.
7. Preparing the cake pan
Grease a loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
8. Baking the cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the dessert is ready.
9. Cooling and serving
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent moisture at the bottom of the cake.
Serving suggestions
The orange and candied fruit cake can be served plain, but for an extra touch of elegance, you can dust it with powdered sugar. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of plant-based cream can turn this dessert into an unforgettable treat. Try it alongside a cup of black tea or a refreshing lemonade for a perfect combination.
Recipe variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace the candied fruits with nuts or roasted almonds. Also, adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can bring an even richer flavor. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your personal preferences!
Nutritional benefits
This cake is an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their intake of animal products, being a vegan dessert. The orange juice provides a significant amount of vitamin C, while the candied fruits offer antioxidants and fiber. Besides being delicious, this cake is also a healthier option compared to other desserts high in saturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but adjustments to the quantities may be necessary.
2. What other candied fruits can I use?
You can use candied cherries, apricots, or even candied orange peel for an exotic flavor.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. You can slice it and wrap it in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.
Calories
A serving of orange and candied fruit cake has approximately 200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
I hope this orange and candied fruit cake recipe brings you joy and delightful moments in the kitchen. Don’t forget to share your results with loved ones and enjoy every bite! Enjoy!
Ingredients: a cup of sugar; a cup of orange juice (freshly squeezed); 1/3 cup of oil; 2 cups of flour; orange essence; a sachet of baking powder; candied fruits (I used cranberries).
