Orange and chocolate cake

Orange and Chocolate Cake – a delicious recipe for the Easter holidays

Spring brings not only flowers and sunshine but also special moments spent with loved ones. A recipe that fits perfectly into this festive atmosphere is the orange and chocolate cake. This light, fluffy, and aromatic dessert will delight all guests and turn the Easter table into a true celebration. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 4 fresh eggs (separate egg whites and yolks)
- 250 g granulated sugar
- 250 g sifted white flour
- 4 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 3 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of one orange (organic, to avoid pesticides)
- 50 g dark chocolate, grated or chopped
- Powdered vanilla sugar for decoration

Necessary utensils

- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Loaf pan (approximately 25x10 cm)
- Baking paper
- Citrus grater
- Silicone spatula

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by separating the eggs. Place the egg whites in a large bowl and the yolks in another. Ensure the bowls are clean and free of any grease for a perfect foam.

2. Beating the egg whites: Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and use the mixer to beat them until stiff peaks form. The foam test is simple: turn the bowl upside down, and if the foam doesn’t move, it’s perfect!

3. Adding the sugar: Continue beating the egg whites and gradually add the granulated sugar. Keep beating until you achieve a creamy, shiny mixture that forms stiff peaks.

4. Yolks and flavors: In the bowl with the yolks, add the grated orange zest, orange juice, and oil. Mix well with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed until well combined.

5. Combining the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder and grated chocolate. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the batter.

6. Combining the mixtures: Add the dry ingredients mixture to the bowl with the yolks and mix gently, with up-and-down motions, to retain the air in the egg whites. Then, fold in the beaten egg whites, also with gentle motions.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line the loaf pan with baking paper and pour the mixture evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check if it's done using the toothpick test – insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the dessert is ready!

8. Cooling and serving: After removing it from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust it with powdered vanilla sugar for an elegant look.

Useful tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh eggs, preferably from free-range hens, for better taste. Organic orange zest adds an intense flavor, so it’s worth investing in quality ingredients.
- Gluten-free option: You can replace white flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a lighter version.
- Storing the cake: This cake keeps well in an airtight container for a few days. It can also be frozen, ensuring it is well wrapped.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate, but the taste will differ.

2. How can I add an extra note of flavor?
Try adding a few drops of vanilla or rum essence to enhance the dessert's aroma.

3. Is this cake suitable for vegans?
Unfortunately, this recipe contains eggs, but you can experiment with vegan egg substitutes like banana puree or applesauce, in appropriate amounts.

Pairings and serving

This orange and chocolate cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of aromatic tea or an espresso coffee. It can be served plain, but for an extra touch of refinement, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm chocolate sauce on top. It is also an excellent dessert to give as a gift or to share with friends and family during the holidays.

In this recipe, we blend tradition with a touch of modernity, and the result is a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings smiles to the faces of loved ones. Whether you choose to prepare it for the Easter table or any other occasion, this cake will surely remain in everyone’s memories. Enjoy your meal!