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Desserts

Orange Tart

⏱ 60 min🍳 40 min👤 8 pp★☆☆☆☆

During winter we often buy plenty of oranges in order to stoke up on vitamin C and their revitalising flavour. To make this simple but fabulous cake you need only three oranges and a few other simple ingredients that will typically be in everyone’s store cupboard. It goes without saying, then, that this is the perfect cake to prepare on-the-go without even having to go shopping. It will, in just a few minutes, revive a tired winter afternoon, especially if you're bored of the usual apple pies or classic sponge cakes. It will give a boost of joy, energy and colour to your life, and at the same time satisfy your sweet tooth. To work, then: our orange cake.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving
Protein
6g
Carbohydrates
75g
Fat
20g
Fiber
1g

* approximate values per serving

Information
60 minutes Total time
40 minutes Active time
Serves 8 persons
★☆☆☆☆ Easy

Preparation

Take an electric whisk, or food processor, and beat the eggs and sugar together well. Add the flour and baking powder and beat again. Add the oil, orange zest and orange juice. Beat once more, then pour the mixture into a greased and floured cake tin. Bake for 40 minutes at 180°C. Serve with a sprinkling of powdered sugar or with a garnish of orange slices.

Tips
In recipes in which you are asked to grate the orange peel or zest, always remember not to grate the white part, called the ‘pith’, which is not aromatic but rather bitter.
Trivia
The word ‘orange’ derives ultimately from the Sanskrit word ‘naranga’ meaning orange tree, of Dravidian origin

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Orange Cake with Chocolate Chips

One of the most delicious variations of Orange Cake is undoubtedly the one with chocolate chips. This preparation enriches the dessert with an irresistible contrast of flavors, where the acidity of the orange perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate. To make it, simply add 100 grams of dark chocolate chips to the batter before baking. The result will be a moist and fragrant cake, perfect for an afternoon snack or as a dessert after a meal. Additionally, this variation is ideal for those who love the combination of citrus and chocolate, creating a balance of taste that surprises with every bite. Served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few slices of orange, it becomes a true feast for the eyes and the palate.

Sicilian Orange Cake

The Sicilian Orange Cake is a preparation that stands out for its moisture and the intense flavor of Sicilian oranges, famous for their sweetness. In this variation, you can also use the juice and zest of organic oranges to enhance the flavor of the dessert. Additionally, you can enrich the batter with chopped almonds, which provide a crunchy texture and a unique flavor. This cake can be served with a glaze made of sugar mixed with orange juice, making it even more appetizing. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply for a sweet end to a meal, the Sicilian Orange Cake is a tribute to the island's pastry tradition.

Light Orange Cake without Butter

For those who want a lighter version of Orange Cake, here is the recipe for Light Orange Cake, made without butter. In this preparation, sunflower oil replaces the butter, keeping the cake soft and moist. Additionally, the amounts of sugar can be reduced by using natural sweeteners like honey or brown sugar. Flour can also be replaced with whole grain flours for a higher fiber content. This variation is perfect for those following a balanced diet but who do not want to give up the pleasure of a dessert. The Light Orange Cake is ideal for breakfast or as a snack, maintaining the fresh and citrusy flavor of the original.

Benefits and Calories of Orange Cake

Orange Cake is not only a delicious dessert but also offers some benefits thanks to its main ingredient: oranges. These citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes skin health. Additionally, oranges contain antioxidants that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. A serving of Orange Cake (about 100 grams) provides approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. By opting for lighter variations or healthy substitutions, it is possible to further reduce the caloric intake, making the dessert more suitable for a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Can Orange Cake be Frozen?

Many wonder if it is possible to freeze Orange Cake. The answer is yes! This dessert freezes well, provided you follow some guidelines. It is advisable to let the cake cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. This way, freshness is preserved and frost formation is avoided. The Orange Cake can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you want to enjoy it, simply let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours, and it will be ready to be savored as if it were just baked.