Orange cream cake

Refined dessert with oranges and fine cream

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines the fresh flavors of citrus with a fluffy texture and rich cream? This orange cream cake recipe is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a true feast for the eyes. Made with love, this cake is perfect for any special occasion, whether it's a family gathering, an anniversary, or simply a moment when you want to treat yourself.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 5 eggs
- Juice of 1 large orange
- 150 g sugar
- 150 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the cream:
- 500 ml milk
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 200 g butter, at room temperature
- Juice and zest of 2 oranges
- 2 egg yolks

For decoration:
- 300 ml whipped cream (whipped with sugar, to taste)
- 2 fresh oranges, sliced
- 1 dark chocolate, grated for decoration

Preparing the base

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This is an essential step to achieve a perfectly fluffy base.

2. Beating the egg whites: In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until they form a firm foam. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a glossy foam.

3. Incorporating the orange juice: Add the orange juice and gently fold in with a spatula. You will notice how the citrus aroma begins to blend with the egg whites.

4. Adding the yolks: Incorporate the yolks, one at a time, gently mixing each time. It is important not to lose the air in the mixture, so use up-and-down motions.

5. Flour and baking powder: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add them to the egg mixture. Gently mix with a spatula, being careful not to develop gluten, to achieve a fluffy base.

6. Baking: Pour the obtained mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and place it in the oven for about 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick to ensure it is baked. When ready, let it cool.

Preparing the cream

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the milk, flour, sugar, yolks, and orange zest. Mix well to avoid lumps.

2. Double boiler: Place the saucepan over a double boiler and stir constantly until the cream thickens. This process allows the ingredients to combine evenly and become creamy.

3. Adding the butter: Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Add the butter at room temperature, mixing well until fully incorporated.

4. Orange juice: Gradually add the orange juice, mixing constantly with a mixer to avoid curdling the cream. You will achieve a smooth and fragrant cream that will give a special taste to your cake.

Assembling the cake

1. Cutting the base: Once the base has completely cooled, cut it into two equal parts.

2. Orange layer: On the first half of the base, place thin slices of orange, followed by half of the prepared cream. Spread the cream evenly for an elegant appearance.

3. Adding the second half: Place the second half of the base on top, repeating the process with the orange slices and the remaining cream. Make sure it is well covered to prevent drying out.

4. Decorating: For an elegant finish, decorate the cake with whipped cream and grated chocolate. These will not only add texture and beauty but also enhance the citrus flavors.

5. Cooling: It is recommended to let the cake chill in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set.

Serving

When it's time to serve, cut the cake into generous portions. You can accompany it with a cup of green tea or fresh lemonade to perfectly complement the orange flavor.

Useful tips

- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, benefiting the immune system and skin health.
- Possible variations: You can experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lemons or grapefruits, to achieve a cake with different flavors. You can also add nuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the result will be denser.
- How can I store the cake? Keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- What can I do with the leftover egg whites? You can make meringues or a delicious omelet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! This orange cream cake will surely become your and your loved ones' favorite, bringing a touch of sunshine to every slice. Enjoy!