Fluffy and aromatic vegan cake

Fluffy and fragrant vegan cake with tangerines, carob, and hazelnuts

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Discover a delicious recipe that combines the fresh flavors of tangerines with the fluffy texture and rich taste of carob. This cake is not only perfect for fasting days but will also bring a touch of joy to every bite. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or as a dessert after a hearty meal, it will surely be appreciated by everyone who tastes it.

Basic ingredients:

1. Fresh tangerine juice (1 cup) - choose juicy tangerines for an intense and fresh flavor.
2. Oil (1/2 cup) - use sunflower oil or a light olive oil, which will add extra flavor.
3. Sparkling mineral water (2 cups) - opt for carbonated mineral water to enhance the airy texture of the cake.
4. Granulated sugar (1 and 1/2 cups) - you can reduce the amount of sugar to your liking, but the sweetness will balance the acidity of the tangerines.
5. Freshly sifted white flour (5 cups) - make sure it is well sifted to prevent lumps.
6. Baking soda (1 rounded teaspoon) - will help the cake rise, giving it a fluffy texture.
7. Fresh yeast (the size of a walnut) - ensure it is fresh for optimal results.
8. Turmeric (a pinch) - adds a touch of color and nutritional benefits.
9. A pinch of salt - enhances the sweetness.
10. Grated lemon zest - will add a note of freshness.
11. Carob (3 tablespoons) - a delicious alternative to cocoa, with a sweet and slightly caramel flavor.
12. Hemp seeds (2 tablespoons) - rich in protein and essential fatty acids, these seeds will add a pleasant crunch.
13. Coarsely chopped hazelnuts (2 tablespoons) - for a rich flavor and crunchy texture.
14. Powdered sugar - to sprinkle on top of the cake at the end.

Preparing the cake:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients in a clean workspace. Make sure you have everything at hand to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

2. The wet mixture: In a large bowl, combine the tangerine juice, sparkling mineral water, and oil. These are the wet ingredients that will bring moisture to your cake.

3. Activating the yeast: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Over the wet mixture, add the baking soda and yeast. Mix well to activate the yeast, then add the salt, turmeric, and granulated sugar. This step will add wonderful flavor.

4. Incorporating the flour: Gradually add the sifted white flour, mixing continuously until you obtain a smooth dough. This will take a few minutes, but it is essential to avoid lumps.

5. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. In one part, add the grated lemon zest, mixing well to distribute the flavor. In the other part, incorporate the carob for a darker color.

6. Preparing the baking tray: Grease a baking tray with oil and dust it with flour. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove after baking.

7. Pouring the dough: Pour the darker mixture into the tray, leveling it evenly. Sprinkle the hemp seeds on top. Then, pour the yellow mixture, being careful not to mix the two colors. Finally, sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the cake bake for about 40 minutes. To check if it is ready, do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

9. Cooling and serving: Remove the tray from the oven and let it cool. Once completely cooled, slice the cake and dust with powdered sugar before serving. This detail will add a festive touch and a sweet taste.

Helpful tips for a perfect result:

- Wet ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better homogenization.
- Flavor variations: You can replace carob with cocoa if you're not a fan of it. You can also add other flavors, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to further customize the recipe.
- Oil: Choose a high-quality oil, as its flavor will influence the final cake.
- Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a warm tea or a fragrant coffee. You can try a mint tea infusion for a pleasant contrast with the sweetness of the cake.

Nutritional benefits:

The vegan cake is an excellent option, being rich in fiber due to the flour and hemp seeds. Tangerines provide vitamin C, while carob is a source of antioxidants and minerals. Hazelnuts add healthy fats and proteins, making this cake a balanced choice.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture will vary.

2. How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for a few days.

3. Can I add fruits to the dough?
Absolutely! You can add pieces of apple or pear for an even more interesting flavor.

This fluffy and fragrant vegan cake will surely become a favorite in your family. So put on your apron and enjoy cooking, as every bite will take you on a journey of flavors! Enjoy!