Lenten Cake

Delicious vegan cake recipe with cocoa and orange essence

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12

Who doesn't love a fluffy, aromatic, and easy-to-make cake? Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for a vegan cake with cocoa and orange essence, perfect to be served with coffee, tea, or even as a dessert after a hearty meal. This simple and quick recipe is a delight that will please everyone's taste buds, whether you are following a vegetarian diet or simply want to try something new.

The history of this cake is linked to culinary traditions where simple ingredients transform into true delicacies. The origins of vegan cakes stem from the desire to create delicious dishes without using animal products. Thus, a vegan cake becomes not only a symbol of culinary creativity but also an opportunity to discover unique flavors.

Ingredients
- 1 cup water (about 250 ml)
- 1 cup sugar (about 200 g)
- 2 cups flour (about 250 g)
- 3 tablespoons oil (about 45 ml)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa (about 15 g)
- Orange essence (to taste)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step by step to the perfect cake

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This detail can make a significant difference in the final texture of the cake. Measure them carefully, and if you wish, you can use a 250 ml cup for all measurements.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the water and sugar. Use a whisk or fork to mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Adding the dry ingredients: Now, gradually add the flour, mixing continuously to avoid lumps. It is very important to use sifted flour, as this will help achieve a fluffier cake.

4. Oil and flavors: Incorporate the oil, baking powder, and orange essence. These will add moisture and flavor to your cake, transforming it into a true delight.

5. Cocoa: Finally, add the cocoa, mixing carefully to ensure it is well distributed in the batter. The cocoa aroma will provide a pleasant contrast to the citrus notes of the orange essence.

6. Preparing the baking pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease the pan with oil and dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking. This step is essential for achieving a beautiful cake with smooth edges.

7. Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 40 minutes. You can check if it is done by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

8. Cooling: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a rack to cool completely. This step is important to avoid excess moisture.

9. Decoration: Once the cake is completely cool, sprinkle powdered sugar on top. This not only gives an elegant appearance but also adds a sweetness contrast, perfect for balancing the flavor.

10. Serving: Cut the cake into squares and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. You can pair it with vanilla ice cream or, for an exotic touch, with citrus ice cream. This vegan cake pairs perfectly with a warm drink or a fresh smoothie.

Useful tips
- If you want to add a crunchy note, you can incorporate chopped nuts or almonds into the batter.
- Replace the orange essence with lemon essence for a tangier version.
- If you are looking for gluten-free options, you can use almond flour or rice flour, being careful to adjust the amount of water.

Frequently asked questions
1. How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last up to a week, but it is so delicious that it probably won't last that long!
2. Can I use other types of sugar? Yes, you can experiment with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a more caramelized flavor.
3. What other flavors can I use? You can add cinnamon or vanilla for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits
This vegan cake contains simple ingredients, free from animal fats, providing a source of carbohydrates for energy. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, and the orange essence adds a dose of vitamin C, contributing to a healthy diet.

In conclusion, this simple vegan cake recipe with cocoa and orange essence is not only a delicious option but also a way to enjoy cooking while exploring new and healthy flavors. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the result will surely be appreciated by everyone around you. Enjoy!