Orange Bombs

Orange Bombs - A Fresh and Flavorful Delight

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 servings

Who doesn't love desserts that combine the fresh citrus flavors with a fluffy texture? Orange bombs are a perfect choice for any occasion, from a simple snack to an elegant dessert for a special event. This dish not only brings a fantastic taste but also an explosion of color and fragrance, making it ideal for sweet lovers. Let's get started!

Your ingredients for orange bombs

For the base:
- 30 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil, but you can also use olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g flour (for optimal results, use type 000 flour)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 eggs (make sure they are at room temperature for better homogenization)
- 2 egg yolks
- 100 g sugar (brown sugar adds a caramel note, if you prefer)
- 50 g honey (use wildflower honey for a more complex taste)

For the cream:
- 200 ml liquid cream (make sure it is well chilled before whipping)
- 50 g bee honey
- 100 ml freshly squeezed orange juice (without additives, for a natural taste)
- 100 g Almette cheese (or another creamy cheese)
- 2 sachets of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet gelatin (approximately 10 g)

Step by step: How to prepare orange bombs

1. Preparing the base
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. In a bowl, mix the flour with salt and baking powder. This step is crucial to ensure that the base will have a fluffy and even texture.

In another bowl, combine the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and honey. Beat the mixture over a double boiler, being careful not to let it boil, until it starts to warm up. Then, remove the bowl from the heat and continue to beat the mixture until it becomes a fluffy and completely cool cream, about 10 minutes. This aeration process is essential for getting a light base.

After the mixture has cooled, gently fold in the dry ingredients, being careful not to deflate the air in the batter. In a separate bowl, mix the oil with a few tablespoons of the batter, then incorporate it into the main mixture in a thin stream while continuously mixing. This technique helps achieve a moister and more flavorful base.

Pour the mixture into a baking tray (25x35 cm) lined with parchment paper and bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the base to cool in the tray.

2. Preparing the cream
While the base is cooling, you can prepare the cream. Soak the gelatin in a few tablespoons of cold water to hydrate it. Meanwhile, mix the bee honey with the orange juice and slightly heat the mixture in the microwave, just enough to dissolve the gelatin. Add the hydrated gelatin and homogenize the mixture.

In a separate bowl, mix the cheese with the vanilla sugar until it becomes a smooth cream. Then, add the whipped cream, gently folding it in with a spatula to maintain the aeration. Begin to incorporate the orange juice with gelatin in a thin stream into the cheese and cream mixture, continuing to mix gently until everything becomes homogeneous.

Chill the cream for about 30 minutes or until it slightly thickens.

3. Assembling the bombs
Once the base has cooled and the cream has set, cut the base into desired shapes (circles, squares, or triangles). Use an ice cream scoop to place a ball of cream on each piece of base. You can play with decorations: add thin slices of orange, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts for an appealing look.

Useful tips for a perfect result

- Choose quality ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will transform your dessert from simple to remarkable. Freshly squeezed orange juice is a must-have.
- Oil: If using olive oil, choose an extra virgin one for a distinct flavor.
- Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is well-hydrated to achieve a perfect cream texture.
- Cooling: Allow the base to cool completely before adding the cream to avoid melting it.

Healthy version

If you want a healthier version of this dessert, you can replace sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia or maple syrup. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of Almette cheese to reduce fat content.

Delicious combinations

Orange bombs pair perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a strong espresso. Additionally, a semi-dry white wine can highlight the citrus flavors of the dessert, turning it into a true feast.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with lemon or grapefruit juice for different flavors.

- How can I store the bombs?
They store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

- Can I freeze the bombs?
It is recommended not to freeze them with the cream, but you can freeze the base and add fresh cream at serving.

I hope you enjoy every step of making these orange bombs, turning them into a delight that everyone will love! Whether it's for a celebration or a simple afternoon spent in the kitchen, this dessert will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!