Orange Cake - 200

Orange Cake - A Fragrant Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Discover the magic of an orange cake, a simple and delicious recipe that will bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. This cake is a true feast for the senses, with an intense citrus aroma perfectly blended with a fluffy batter. Inspired by traditional recipes, this quick dessert is ideal for special occasions or simply to treat yourself during the day.

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg fresh oranges
- 1 lemon
- 400 g sugar
- 150 g flour
- 3 eggs
- 1 packet baking powder
- 100 ml milk
- 50 g butter (melted)
- 1 vanilla essence
- 1 lemon essence

Step 1: Preparing the oranges
Start by peeling the oranges. Cut them into thin slices and place them in a pot. Add 300 g of sugar, the juice of one lemon, and the grated zest of the same lemon. Simmer the mixture over medium heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and becomes a delicious syrup. This step will enhance the orange flavor and add a hint of acidity to your cake.

Step 2: Preparing the batter
In a large bowl, beat the whole eggs with 100 g of sugar until you achieve a frothy and light-colored mixture. Add the milk, vanilla and lemon essences, and melted butter. Mix well to combine the ingredients. In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg bowl and gently fold with a spatula until you obtain a smooth batter.

Step 3: Baking the cake
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray (approximately 30 x 20 cm) with parchment paper and pour half of the batter into it. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the batter is slightly set. It is important not to overbake, or it will become dry.

Step 4: Adding the orange mixture
Remove the tray from the oven and carefully add the orange mixture, spreading it evenly over the batter base. Then, pour the remaining batter on top, completely covering the orange slices. Return the tray to the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, until the cake turns golden and feels firm to the touch.

Step 5: Finishing touches
Once the cake is baked, let it cool slightly in the tray, then cut it into squares or rectangles, as preferred. Dust with powdered sugar on top for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness. Serve the cake cold to maintain its perfect taste and texture.

Tips and useful advice:
- Use organic oranges, free from pesticides, to enjoy the natural flavors of the peel.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the sugar to 300 g.
- Add a dash of cinnamon to the batter for a deeper flavor.
- You can experiment with other citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or lemons, in combination with oranges.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen oranges? Fresh ones are preferred, but if you don't have them on hand, make sure they are well thawed and drained before use.
- How can I store the cake? It can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The flavor will intensify over time.
- What drinks pair well with the orange cake? A cup of green tea or a glass of lemonade will perfectly complement the cake's flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake is rich in vitamin C due to the oranges, helping to strengthen the immune system. It also contains protein from the eggs and calcium from the milk, making it a healthier choice compared to other desserts rich in saturated fats.

This orange cake is much more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will bring a touch of joy to your life. Share it with loved ones or savor it during your moments of relaxation. Enjoy!