Orange Citrus Cake: A Sunshine-Filled Baking Delight

by

This vibrant orange cake brings the essence of sunshine directly to your kitchen, combining the bright, fresh flavor of citrus with a tender, soft crumb that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

  • 400g oranges or clementines (peeled and pureed)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 60g sugar (adjustable)

Dry Ingredients:

  • 550g 00 flour
  • 16g fresh yeast (or 7g dry yeast)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Oranges:
    • Peel oranges or clementines
    • Remove any seeds
    • Blend into a smooth puree
    • Measure 400g of puree
  2. Activate Yeast:
    • If using fresh yeast, crumble into warm water
    • For dry yeast, dissolve in lukewarm water
    • Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine:
      • Orange puree
      • Eggs
      • Sugar
    • Whisk until well combined
  4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
    • Gradually add flour to wet mixture
    • Add activated yeast
    • Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms
  5. Knead and Rise:
    • Knead dough on floured surface for 10 minutes
    • Place in oiled bowl
    • Cover and let rise in warm place for 1-2 hours
    • Dough should double in size
  6. Shape and Bake:
    • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
    • Shape dough into desired form
    • Place on baking sheet
    • Bake for 30-35 minutes
    • Golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped

Nutritional Information

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 250-300
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Preparation Time: 2 hours
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Servings: 8-10

Baking Tips

  • Use room temperature ingredients
  • Don’t overwork the dough
  • Check for doneness with a toothpick
  • Allow to cool completely before slicing

Variations and Substitutions

  • Flour Options: Whole wheat, gluten-free blend
  • Citrus Variations: Lemon, tangerine
  • Add-Ins: Nuts, chocolate chips
  • Sweetener: Honey, maple syrup

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use different citrus? Yes, try lemons, tangerines, or mixed citrus

Q2: How to store? Keep in airtight container for 3-4 days

Q3: Can I freeze this cake? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month

Q4: Why use 00 flour? Provides softer, more delicate texture

Q5: Can I reduce sugar? Adjust to taste, but some sugar helps with rising

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Cool completely before storing
  • Wrap in plastic wrap
  • Store at room temperature
  • Best consumed within 3-4 days
  • Can be served with tea or coffee

A delightful orange cake that brings the brightness of citrus to your baking adventure!