Orange cake

Orange and lemon-scented cake

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10

Welcome to the wonderful world of desserts! Today, I will present you with a captivating recipe that combines the juicy aroma of oranges with a touch of freshness from lemon. This orange cake is not just a delicious dessert, but also an explosion of flavors that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

The history of fruit cakes dates back to ancient times when people began to combine simple ingredients to create sweet delights. Oranges, with their natural sweetness, have been frequently used in pastry preparations, becoming a staple ingredient in many cultures. The cake you will prepare today is a modern interpretation of these traditions, bringing together simple ingredients for an elegant and refined dessert.

Ingredients:
- 6 medium oranges (preferably organic for an intense flavor)
- 1 lemon
- 280 g sugar
- 130 g flour
- 3 eggs
- 1 packet baking powder
- 50 ml milk
- 40 g melted butter (try to use high-quality butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract

Step 1: Preparing the oranges
Start by peeling the 6 oranges. Remove the skin, ensuring to eliminate the white membranes that can add a bitter taste. Slice them thinly. In a saucepan, add the orange slices, juice from one lemon, 200 g of sugar, and grated lemon zest. These ingredients will combine to create a delicious filling, and boiling will intensify the flavors. Heat the mixture over medium heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oranges become soft and the syrup thickens.

Step 2: Preparing the batter
In a large bowl, beat the 3 eggs with 80 g of sugar (reserve the rest of the sugar for the filling) until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. This is an essential step, as the incorporated air will make the cake fluffier. Add the milk, vanilla and lemon extracts, as well as the melted butter, and mix well.

The next step is to sift the flour together with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour to the egg mixture, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon to avoid losing air from the batter.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Pour half of the batter into the tray, then place it in the oven for about 12 minutes. This will create a perfect base for the orange filling.

Step 4: Adding the filling
Once the base has baked, remove the tray from the oven and carefully add the cooked orange slices, distributing them evenly. Then, cover with the remaining batter, ensuring that the filling is well sealed inside.

Step 5: Final baking
Put the tray back in the oven and let it bake for another 15-17 minutes. You will know the cake is ready when it turns golden-brown on the surface and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
After baking, let the cake cool in the tray, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Once it has completely cooled, cut it into squares or triangles, as preferred.

Serving suggestion: You can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant look or add a teaspoon of natural whipped cream for an extra creaminess. Additionally, this cake pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic tea or a sweet white wine.

Nutritional benefits: The orange cake is a healthier choice compared to other desserts, thanks to the vitamin content from citrus fruits. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, while lemon adds a plus of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the oranges with other citrus fruits or with apples and pears for an interesting variation.
2. Does the cake keep well? Yes, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
3. How can I add a chocolate note? You can add chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious contrast.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work! This orange and lemon cake is perfect for any occasion and will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends – who knows, it might become their favorite! Enjoy!