Dessert - Orange and coconut flake cake by Francesca C. - Recipia
Orange and coconut cake: a delicious and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for moments when you want to treat your family and friends to a fragrant and textured dessert. This cake is a perfect combination of the sweetness of fruits and the tropical aroma of coconut, offering a final result that will make you feel like you're on a sunny vacation.

A short story about the cake

The cake is a classic dessert that has enjoyed popularity over time. Its origins run deep in history, being associated with simple yet delicious dishes that bring family and friends together around the table. The orange and coconut version stands out for its freshness, and the addition of orange syrup gives it an extra note of juiciness.

Preparation time

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 45-50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For two long cakes, you will need:

For the cake:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 240 g)
- 2 cups of flour (280 g)
- 2/3 cup of coconut flakes (70 g)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 cup of oil
- 1 1/4 cups of orange juice
- Zest from 1 orange
- 1/2 cup of candied orange peel

For the orange syrup:
- 1 cup of orange juice
- 3/4 cup of sugar

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the orange syrup:
Start by preparing the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice with the sugar and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves and the syrup starts to boil. Once boiled, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Turn off the heat and let the syrup cool.

2. Preheating the oven:
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 170°C. It's important to have the oven well heated before placing the cakes in for even baking.

3. Preparing the cake batter:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture becomes a fluffy, pearl-white cream. This is an essential step to achieve a light texture.

4. Adding the oil:
Gradually add the oil while continuing to mix on low speed. The oil will make the cake moister and tastier.

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Using a spatula, gradually add the flour mixture to the egg and sugar mixture, alternating with the orange juice and orange zest. Mix gently to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which could make the cake dense.

6. Adding the coconut flakes and candied orange peel:
Finally, fold in the coconut flakes and candied orange peel. These will add a crunchy texture and a sweet-sour flavor.

7. Pouring the batter into the pans:
Grease two long pans with a little oil and evenly divide the batter between the two pans.

8. Baking:
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the cakes are ready.

9. Finishing:
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. If desired, you can brush the cakes with the orange syrup for added moisture and flavor. Alternatively, you can top them with almond pieces for a crunchy appearance.

Serving suggestions

This orange and coconut cake is delicious when served plain, but it can also be accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a decadent dessert. You might also consider a bit of whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Possible variations

To add a personal touch, you can replace the candied orange peel with raisins or finely chopped nuts. You can also experiment with flavors by adding a splash of vanilla extract or even a pinch of cinnamon for a warmer, spicier taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each serving of cake contains approximately 250 calories, with a high carbohydrate content from sugar and flour. However, the coconut flakes provide fiber and healthy fats, while the orange juice offers essential vitamins, such as vitamin C. This dessert is perfect for enjoying in moderation, ensuring you include a variety of nutrients in your diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but results may vary.

2. How can I store the cake?
Keep it in an airtight container for 3-4 days to maintain its moist texture.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

We hope this orange and coconut cake recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and at your tables! Enjoy every slice and share it with your loved ones!
Dessert - Orange and coconut flake cake by Francesca C. - Recipia

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