Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Intense Orange Flavor: Using whole oranges ensures a robust and authentic citrus taste.
- Gluten-Free: Almond meal replaces traditional flour, catering to gluten-free diets.
- Moist and Tender: The combination of oranges and almond meal results in a wonderfully moist texture.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of common ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect for various occasions, from casual tea times to special celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 medium or large oranges
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup (220g) caster sugar
- 2 ⅓ cups (250g) almond meal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Oranges: Place whole, unpeeled oranges in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1-2 hours until soft. Drain and allow to cool.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease and line a 20 cm (8 inch) round cake tin with baking paper.
- Process Oranges: Once cooled, cut the oranges into quarters, remove any seeds, and blend into a smooth puree using a food processor.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until combined. Add the orange puree and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix almond meal and baking powder. Gradually fold this into the orange mixture until fully incorporated.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the tin before transferring to a wire rack. Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 slices.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (excluding orange boiling time).
- Cooking Time: 1-2 hours for boiling oranges, plus 60-70 minutes for baking.
Variations
- Chocolate Orange Cake: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate twist.
- Nutty Topping: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking for added crunch.
- Citrus Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired.
FAQs
What type of oranges should I use for this cake?
Navel or Valencia oranges work well due to their sweetness and thin skin.
Can I substitute almond meal with another ingredient?
Almond meal is essential for the cake’s texture and flavor; substituting it may alter the results.
Is this cake suitable for Passover?
Yes, as it contains no leavening agents or flour, it’s appropriate for Passover.
How can I reduce the bitterness from the orange peel?
Boiling the oranges helps reduce bitterness; ensure they are soft before pureeing.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, but ensure the orange puree is smooth to avoid large peel pieces.
What can I serve with this cake?
It’s delicious on its own or with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, it often tastes better the next day as flavors meld.
Is this cake dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe contains no dairy products.
Can I add spices to the batter?
Certainly, adding cinnamon or cardamom can enhance the flavor.
Conclusion
This Flourless Orange Cake is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dessert that’s both flavorful and accommodating to various dietary needs. Its moist texture and vibrant citrus taste make it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Flourless Orange Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Flourless Orange Cake is a gluten-free dessert that combines whole oranges with almond meal to deliver an intense citrus flavor and moist texture. Perfect for any occasion, it’s naturally dairy-free and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 medium or large oranges
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup (220g) caster sugar
- 2 ⅓ cups (250g) almond meal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Oranges: Place whole oranges in a saucepan, cover with water, and simmer for 1-2 hours until soft. Drain and cool.
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease and line a 20 cm (8-inch) round cake tin.
- Process Oranges: Quarter cooled oranges, remove seeds, and puree in a food processor.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until combined. Stir in orange puree and vanilla.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Mix almond meal and baking powder in a separate bowl, then fold into the orange mixture.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared tin. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow cake to cool in the tin before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Boil oranges ahead of time for convenience.
- Add slivered almonds or a citrus glaze for variation.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (excluding orange boiling time)
- Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (includes orange boiling and baking time)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
