Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

The Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fresh oranges. This cake is moist, flavorful, and easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. The unique feature of this recipe is that it uses an entire orange, rind included, giving the cake its vibrant flavor and beautiful color. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The whole orange used in this recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor unlike any other cake.
• Versatile Dessert: This Sicilian Whole Orange Cake can be served as a simple dessert or dressed up for special occasions.
• Moist and Luscious: Thanks to the yogurt and butter, each slice is incredibly moist and tender.
• Healthier Option: Using Greek yogurt adds protein and reduces fat without compromising taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Sicilian Whole Orange Cake, gather all necessary tools. Having everything at hand will make your baking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Loaf pan or round cake pan
• Parchment paper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining wet and dry ingredients evenly.
• Whisk: This tool helps incorporate air into your batter, ensuring a light texture.
• Loaf pan or round cake pan: The right pan shape determines how evenly the cake bakes.
• Parchment paper: Optional but recommended for easy removal of the cake after baking.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 3 eggs
• 1 ⅛ cups sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder (OR 1 packet Italian Pane Degli Angeli vanilla baking powder)
• ⅓ cup butter (salted, softened)
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt (plain; sour cream works too)
• 1 orange (approximately 1 large fresh, sweet, organic; washed and cut into pieces; keep the rind, but remove the seeds)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (ONLY USE IF USING PLAIN BAKING POWDER)
• 2 ½ oz orange juice (freshly squeezed juice of one large organic orange)
• 3 Tbsp sugar

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients together. Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing.

Step 3: Blend the Orange

In a mixing bowl, combine the pieces of the washed orange with its rind. Blend until smooth.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, Greek yogurt, melted butter, vanilla extract (if using), and freshly squeezed orange juice until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold in the blended orange mixture into the wet ingredients until just incorporated.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients

In a different bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into a prepared loaf or round cake pan. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let the cake cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy every slice of your Sicilian Whole Orange Cake!

How to Serve Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or as a simple dessert after dinner, the following suggestions will help you present this cake beautifully.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream complements the moist cake perfectly.

As a Layered Dessert

• Slice the cake into layers and fill with mascarpone cheese for an elegant touch.

With Citrus Glaze

• Drizzle a vibrant citrus glaze on top to enhance the orange flavor.

Alongside Fresh Berries

• Serve with mixed fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Heat slices slightly and serve with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair each slice with a cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

To ensure your Sicilian Whole Orange Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Organic Oranges – Organic oranges provide better flavor and are free from harmful pesticides.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure eggs and butter are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and airy.
• Check Doneness Early – Start checking doneness 5-10 minutes before the recommended baking time.
• Cool Completely Before Serving – Allow the cake to cool completely for better slicing and serving.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers covered at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess to each bite.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad – A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits enhances freshness on the plate.
3. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzling warm chocolate sauce brings richness that balances the orange’s brightness.
4. Pistachio Crumble – This nutty topping adds crunch and contrasts well with the soft cake texture.
5. Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt provides tanginess that cuts through sweetness.
6. Espresso – A shot of espresso offers a bold flavor that pairs nicely with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sicilian Whole Orange Cake, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Using the wrong type of orange: Ensure you use a fresh, sweet, organic orange. This enhances the cake’s flavor. Avoid bitter or overly ripe oranges that can alter the taste.
• Skipping the rind: The rind of the orange adds essential oils and flavor to the cake. Always include it, but remember to remove any seeds before blending.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy to avoid dense or dry cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the refrigerator if you live in a warm climate or if the cake has been frosted.

Freezing Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat for 5 minutes, checking often.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sicilian Whole Orange Cake unique?

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake stands out because it uses an entire orange, including the rind, which gives it a distinct flavor and moist texture.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt in this recipe?

Yes! You can use sour cream as an alternative. It will provide similar moisture and richness to your cake.

How should I serve Sicilian Whole Orange Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but can be served with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Can I customize my Sicilian Whole Orange Cake?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits like lemons or limes!

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is not only moist and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its unique use of whole orange gives it an unforgettable flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients! Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to impress family and friends with this fabulous dessert.

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Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x

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Description

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is a vibrant dessert that delights the senses with its moist texture and intense citrus flavor. This unique cake incorporates an entire orange, rind included, resulting in a beautiful color and a rich, flavorful profile. Perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to elegant celebrations—this cake is as easy to make as it is impressive. With Greek yogurt adding moisture and reducing fat, you can indulge without the guilt. Enjoy it plain or elevate it with whipped cream or fresh fruit for a delightful treat that your guests will rave about.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 large eggs
• 1 ⅛ cups sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ⅓ cup salted butter (softened)
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 large organic orange (washed, cut into pieces)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 2 ½ oz freshly squeezed orange juice
• 3 tbsp sugar (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Blend orange pieces (with rind) until smooth in a mixing bowl.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, vanilla extract (if using), and orange juice until combined.
4. Fold blended orange mixture into wet ingredients.
5. Sift flour and baking powder together; gradually mix with wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Pour batter into a greased cake pan and bake for approximately 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Choose organic oranges for the best flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.