ORANGE CAKE WITHOUT BASE

Orange Cake without Base - A Fruity and Creamy Delight

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today I present you a recipe for an orange cake without a base, a perfect choice for moments when you want a refined dessert that is easy to prepare. This cake, with a creamy texture and an intense citrus flavor, will quickly become the star of your festive meals or gatherings with friends. It is an ideal dessert for those who prefer a lighter and fresher option without sacrificing taste.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Chilling time: 3-4 hours
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 3 egg yolks
- 250 g sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 250-300 ml fruit juice (preferably orange, but you can also use compote)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 packets of gelatin (previously soaked in fruit juice or water)
- 250-300 g whipped cream (preferably natural cream)
- Fruits for decoration (orange slices, pineapple, kiwi, berries, etc.)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Orange Cream:
Start by beating the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar in a bowl. Use a whisk or an electric mixer on low speed to achieve a smooth and creamy paste. It is essential not to create foam, just to mix the ingredients well.

2. Adding the Fruit Juice:
Gradually add the fruit juice and lemon juice to the mixture. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. This citrus combination will give the cake a fresh and revitalizing taste.

3. Heating the Mixture:
Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and place it over low heat. Stir continuously until it reaches boiling point. Once it starts to boil, let it boil for about a minute, then remove it from the heat. This process will help activate the sugar and intensify the flavors.

4. Incorporating the Gelatin:
When the mixture is warm (not hot!), add the previously prepared gelatin. Mix well until the gelatin is completely dissolved and blended into the mixture. Make sure not to add gelatin when the mixture is cold, as it will not blend properly.

5. Cooling the Mixture:
Allow the mixture to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, add the whipped cream, gently folding it in with a spatula to maintain airiness and a light texture.

6. Preparing the Dish:
Line a baking dish with the desired fruits. Orange slices, pineapple, and kiwi are excellent options, but feel free to experiment with berries or other favorite fruits.

7. Pouring the Cream:
Carefully pour the cake mixture over the fruits. Ensure that the fruits are evenly distributed for an appealing look.

8. Final Chilling:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or until the cake is well set. It is essential to be patient, as the chilling time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

9. Serving the Cake:
When you are ready to serve, dip the bottom of the dish in a pot of hot water for about 30 seconds. This simple trick will help the cake release more easily. Then, invert the dish onto a platter and let the cake slide out beautifully. Decorate with fresh fruits for a vibrant and appetizing appearance.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Ingredients: Use fresh fruits for better taste. Also, opt for natural sugar or alternative sweeteners if you want to reduce calories.
- Variations: Experiment with other flavors, such as vanilla or almonds, to add a personal twist. You can also incorporate small pieces of white chocolate into the mixture for a delicious contrast.
- Keeping it Refreshing: If you want an even cooler cake, add a few fresh mint leaves on top before serving.

Nutritional Information:
Calories per serving: approximately 200-250 kcal (depending on the ingredients used)
Benefits: This orange cake provides a good supply of vitamin C from the fruits, helping to strengthen the immune system. Additionally, the cream adds a source of calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use vegetarian gelatin? Yes, you can replace gelatin with agar-agar, but follow the instructions on the package for preparation.
- How can I store the cake? The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

This orange cake without a base is a true treat, easy to make and guaranteed to delight! So, don’t hesitate to try it at home and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!