Orange cake

Orange Cake with Glossy Glaze

Do you want a dessert that brings a touch of sunshine to every slice? The orange cake is the perfect choice! The fresh aroma and delicate textures blend harmoniously, turning this recipe into a true delicacy. Besides its exquisite taste, it is a simple and quick dessert, ideal for any occasion.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 10

A Brief History of Cake

Cake, a classic dessert, has been popularized in various cultures, each adding its own twist. From traditional recipes to modern ones, cake has evolved while still maintaining its essence as an easy-to-make dish. In many families, orange cake is associated with pleasant memories, being served at birthdays or festive meals.

Ingredients

For the cake:
- 3 eggs
- 260 g sugar
- 300 g flour
- 50-60 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 1 large orange (used for both puree and zest)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 40-50 g raisins
- A pinch of vanilla (optional, for extra flavor)

For the glaze:
- 1 orange (flesh)
- 1.5-2 tablespoons sugar

Preparation Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a fluffier texture. Peel the orange and cut it into cubes, keeping the zest for extra flavor. For a more intense flavor, you can use organic orange zest.

2. Preparing the orange puree
In a blender, add the orange cubes along with the zest and blend until you get a fine puree. This will add moisture and flavor to your cake.

3. Mixing the composition
In a large bowl, add the 3 eggs and sugar. Whisk them well with a whisk or wooden spatula until the mixture is homogeneous and frothy. Add the orange puree and oil, continuing to mix.

4. Adding the dry ingredients
Sift the flour together with the baking powder to avoid lumps. Start incorporating the flour into the egg mixture, mixing with a wooden spatula. It is important not to use a mixer at this stage, as the air in the mixture will help achieve a fluffy texture.

5. Incorporating the raisins
Once you have a homogeneous mixture, add the raisins, mixing gently to avoid crushing them.

6. Preparing the baking pan
Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 25 minutes to avoid the cake sinking.

8. Cooling the cake
Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and place it on a rack to cool completely.

9. Preparing the glaze
In a small saucepan, place the flesh of one finely chopped orange and the sugar. Boil over high heat, stirring constantly. When the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium and continue stirring for 10-15 minutes, until the glaze becomes glossy and has the consistency of a jam.

10. Finishing
When the cake has cooled completely, brush it with the warm glaze. This addition not only enhances the appearance but also provides a delicious orange flavor.

11. Serving
Let the cake set a bit before slicing it. It is delicious served alongside a cup of tea or coffee, but can also be paired with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Practical Tips
- Raisins: You can soak the raisins in warm water or orange juice before adding them to the mixture to make them juicier.
- Flavoring: If desired, you can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a more complex taste.
- Vegan option: You can replace the eggs with banana puree or 150 g of plant-based yogurt.

Nutritional Information
This orange cake recipe contains approximately 200 calories per serving, offering a healthy mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats from the oil, and vitamins from the fruit. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I replace the orange with another fruit?
Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lemons or grapefruits, for a different flavor.
- Why is it important to use a wooden spatula?
The wooden spatula helps maintain the air in the mixture, essential for a fluffy texture.
- How can I keep the cake fresh?
Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in a metal box to prevent drying out.

The orange cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and flavor to every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your creation with loved ones!

 Ingredients: For the cake: -3 eggs -260 g of sugar -300 g of flour -50-60 ml of oil -1 large orange (pureed with the skin) -1 teaspoon of baking powder -40-50 g of raisins -a little vanilla For the glaze: -1 orange -1.5-2 tablespoons of sugar