Description
This Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert made by blending a whole organic orange into the batter, delivering a unique citrus taste and tender crumb. Perfect for any occasion, this cake combines simple ingredients and a straightforward process to create a deliciously fragrant treat with a hint of natural sweetness.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit
- 1 whole organic orange (seedless, with thin skin)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1â…” cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- â…“ cup plain yogurt
- â…“ cup softened butter
- Orange juice (for glaze)
- Powdered sugar (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Prepare Pan: Grease an 8-inch springform pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal of the cake once baked.
- Blend Orange: Cut the orange into chunks, removing any seeds. Blend the entire orange, including peel, pulp, and juice, in a food processor until smooth to infuse the cake with fresh citrus flavor.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender cake texture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this flour mixture to the egg mixture, followed by the softened butter and yogurt, blending until just combined.
- Combine Orange Mixture: Stir the blended orange into the batter, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated for consistent flavor throughout the cake.
- Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing the springform. Optionally, prepare a glaze by mixing orange juice and powdered sugar and drizzle it over the cooled cake for added sweetness and shine.
Notes
- Use a seedless, thin-skinned organic orange for best flavor and minimal bitterness.
- The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check doneness with a skewer.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute yogurt and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- The whole orange adds natural moisture and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness.
- Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
