Melt-in-Your-Mouth Orange Vanilla Cake: Dairy-Free and Egg-Free Delight

The Story Behind This Incredible Cake

Sometimes the most extraordinary recipes come from the simplest ingredients. This cake is a testament to culinary creativity – a dairy-free, egg-free masterpiece that proves you don’t need traditional ingredients to create something truly remarkable.

Ingredients (US & Metric Measurements)

Dry Ingredients

  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups (300g)
  • Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons (180g)
  • Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon (16g)

Wet Ingredients

  • Orange Juice: 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon (200ml)
  • Sunflower Oil: 1/2 cup (100ml)
  • Boiling Water: 1/3 cup (80ml)
  • White Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
    • Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) cake pan
    • Line bottom with parchment paper
  2. Dry Ingredient Mixing
    • In a large mixing bowl, sift flour
    • Add sugar and baking powder
    • Whisk together until well combined
  3. Wet Ingredient Blend
    • In a separate bowl, mix orange juice
    • Add sunflower oil
    • Pour in vanilla extract
    • Add vinegar
    • Stir thoroughly
  4. Batter Creation
    • Create a well in dry ingredients
    • Slowly pour wet ingredients
    • Mix gently until just combined
    • Gradually add boiling water
    • Stir until smooth and consistent
  5. Baking
    • Pour batter into prepared pan
    • Smooth top with spatula
    • Bake for 35-40 minutes
    • Check with toothpick – should come out clean
    • Allow to cool in pan for 10 minutes
    • Transfer to wire rack

Nutritional Information

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 250-280 kcal
  • Protein: 3-4g
  • Fat: 10-12g
  • Carbohydrates: 40-45g
  • Fiber: 1-2g

Preparation Details:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 8-10 slices

Baking Tips and Tricks

  • Use room temperature ingredients
  • Don’t overmix the batter
  • Sift dry ingredients for smooth texture
  • Use fresh orange juice for best flavor
  • Check oven temperature for even baking

Variations and Substitutions

  • Replace orange juice with lemon juice
  • Add orange zest for extra flavor
  • Use coconut oil instead of sunflower oil
  • Experiment with different extracts
  • Top with powdered sugar or simple glaze

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Why use vinegar? Helps activate baking powder, creates lighter texture
  2. Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour blend
  3. How to store? Room temperature, covered, 3-4 days
  4. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, up to 1 month wrapped tightly
  5. Vegan-friendly? Already dairy-free and egg-free!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Cool completely before storing
  • Keep in airtight container
  • Store at room temperature
  • Best consumed within 3-4 days
  • Can be frozen for longer storage

A cake that defies expectations – no eggs, no milk, just pure deliciousness!

Bon appétit!