Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake: A Burst of Mediterranean Sunshine

When it comes to baking, few things are as delightful as a cake that captures the essence of a sunny, Mediterranean day. This Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is just that—an easy-to-make dessert that bursts with the fresh, vibrant flavor of oranges. Made with whole oranges, rind and all, this cake is incredibly moist, rich, and packed with citrusy goodness. Perfect for any occasion, this cake brings a taste of Sicily right into your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 1 1/8 cup (250g) sugar
• 1 3/4 cup (275g) all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder (or 1 packet Italian Pane Degli Angeli vanilla baking powder)
• 1/3 cup (100g) butter, softened
• 1/3 cup (100g) plain Greek yogurt (sour cream works, too)
• 1 large organic orange, about (300g), washed and cut into pieces (with the rind, but remove the seeds)
• (If using plain baking powder, add 1 tsp vanilla extract)

For the Glaze:

• Juice of one organic orange
• 1/3 cup (100g) sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8″ springform pan by spraying it with oil (or butter) and lining the bottom with parchment paper. For cleaner sides, you can line the sides as well and spray the paper.
2. Prepare the Batter:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and eggs. Beat with a mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
   Sift the flour together with the baking powder (or Paneangeli if using). Gradually add this dry mixture to the bowl with the sugar and eggs, along with the softened butter. Mix until fully combined. Then, stir in the Greek yogurt.
4. Puree the Orange:
   In a food processor, process the whole orange (including the rind, but removing the seeds) until it is almost pureed. Add this orange puree to the cake batter. If using plain baking powder, also add the vanilla extract at this stage. Stir until the batter is evenly mixed.
5. Bake the Cake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, depending on your oven. Test the cake with a cake tester or skewer to ensure it’s fully cooked before removing it from the oven. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then remove the side of the springform pan.
6. Make the Orange Glaze:
   While the cake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the sugar in the orange juice and let it simmer for a few minutes until the liquid has a syrupy consistency.
7. Glaze the Cake:
   Once the cake is out of the pan, spoon and brush the orange glaze over the top. Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting into it.

Quick Facts:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Servings: 8 servings

This Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is a true gem—a dessert that’s both simple and sophisticated, making it perfect for anything from a casual afternoon tea to a special celebration. The whole orange, with its natural oils and zest, gives this cake a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Serve it on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Buon appetito!

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