Flourless Orange and Almond Cake

There’s something truly special about the Flourless Orange and Almond Cake. I remember the first time I tasted it, a sun-drenched afternoon at a friend’s house. The vibrant aroma of freshly zested oranges filled the air, mingling with the rich scent of almonds, and I was instantly drawn in. It’s one of those cakes that seems to weave its magic, captivating everyone who takes a bite. Made without traditional flour, this cake is not only gluten-free, but also incredibly moist, thanks to the whole oranges that are blended right into the batter. Every forkful delivers a delightful burst of citrus flavor, perfectly complemented by the nutty undertones of the almond meal.

As the cake bakes, your home will be enveloped in a warm, inviting scent that beckons friends and family to the kitchen. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a simple gathering, serving this cake is like giving a gift. Each slice is a slice of sunshine, and the stunning presentation—beautifully adorned with orange slices, crunchy almonds, and perhaps a sprinkle of edible flowers—makes it all the more irresistible. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up. I often find myself making it when I want to impress without the fuss, and it never disappoints. With just a handful of ingredients, the Flourless Orange and Almond Cake is proof that sometimes, less truly is more.

Ingredients to Make Flourless Orange and Almond Cake

When it comes to creating a masterpiece like the Flourless Orange and Almond Cake, the ingredients play a crucial role. Whole oranges provide a vibrant flavor and moisture, while almond meal lends a unique texture and nutty essence. This combination makes for a cake that’s not only delicious but also wholesome.

• 1 whole orange – This ingredient is the star of the show, providing vibrant flavor and moisture.
• 3 eggs – These are essential for binding the ingredients together and providing structure.
• ⅔ cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a slight caramel flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 ¼ cups almond meal – A key ingredient that replaces flour, giving the cake its unique texture.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise and maintain a light texture.
• 1 whole orange, sliced – For decoration, adding visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor.
• ¼ cup raw almonds, chopped – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cake.
• edible small flowers such as violas or lemon myrtle – Optional, for a beautiful garnish.

Directions for Flourless Orange and Almond Cake

Making the Flourless Orange and Almond Cake is a straightforward process that rewards you with an impressive dessert. Let’s dive into the steps and get that cake in the oven!

1. Start by putting the whole orange in a small saucepan and covering it with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce it to a simmer. Let it cook for about an hour, topping up the water if necessary. This step softens the orange, making it easier to blend and enhancing its flavor.
2. Once the hour is up, carefully remove the orange from the water and allow it to cool at room temperature. This cooling period is essential as it prevents any burns when you handle the orange later.
3. While the orange cools, preheat your oven to 340ºF (170ºC). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly and thoroughly.
4. Next, butter and line a 9-inch by 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This step is crucial to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, making it easy to remove once baked.
5. Now, break the cooled orange into pieces and place it into a food processor, making sure to remove any seeds. Blitz the orange until you have a rough pulp, then push the sides down and give it another quick whizz to ensure it’s well blended.
6. Add the eggs to the orange pulp in the food processor and whizz gently to combine. This will incorporate air into the mixture, giving your cake a light texture.
7. Next, add in the brown sugar, almond meal, lemon juice, and baking powder. Whizz the mixture until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a smooth batter.
8. Pour the cake batter into your prepared tin, spreading it evenly. Cover the top with foil, which will help the cake retain moisture during baking.
9. Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. The cake should be golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center should come out clean.
10. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This allows the flavors to settle and makes for a more flavorful cake.
11. When you’re ready to serve, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Decorate it with slices of orange, chopped almonds, and optional edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Ways to Customize

There are so many ways to customize the Flourless Orange and Almond Cake. Here are some delightful tips to try:

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. It can also be refrigerated to extend its shelf life.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Serving Variations: Serve slices of the cake with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
• Flavor Additions: Consider adding a hint of orange zest to the batter for an even more intense citrus flavor.
• Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like shaved chocolate, candied lemon slices, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
• Spice It Up: For a warm touch, try adding a dash of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a unique twist.

Serve This Flourless Orange and Almond Cake With

When it comes to serving the Flourless Orange and Almond Cake, the options are plentiful. Here are some great ways to enjoy it:

• Fresh Berries: Pair the cake with a side of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Creamy Whipped Topping: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds richness that complements the cake’s texture.
• Seasonal Events: This cake is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, making it an ideal dessert for birthdays or picnics.
• Afternoon Tea: Serve it at your next tea party for an elegant touch.
• Simple Gatherings: Enjoy it as a delicious dessert after a cozy family dinner or lunch.
• Breakfast Treat: It can even make a great breakfast treat accompanied by a cup of coffee.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Flourless Orange and Almond Cake is a delightful treat that offers both flavor and simplicity. Its unique use of whole oranges creates an incredibly moist and flavorful dessert that everyone will love. I encourage you to try making this cake for your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to impress your friends and family with such a beautiful and delicious dessert!

Flourless Orange and Almond Cake

This Flourless Orange and Almond Cake is a vibrant, gluten-free dessert bursting with citrus flavor and nutty almond goodness. It's easy to make and perfect for any occasion, making it a must-try for your next gathering!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 orange
• 3 eggs
• ⅔ cup brown sugar
• 1 ¼ cups almond meal
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 orange sliced for decoration
• ¼ cup raw almonds chopped for garnish
• edible flowers optional, for decoration

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Food Processor
• Saucepan
• Frying pan
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Put the whole orange in a small saucepan with cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for an hour. Remove the orange and let it cool.
2. Preheat the oven to 340ºF (170ºC) and prepare a loaf pan by buttering and lining it.
3. Break the cooled orange into pieces and blitz in a food processor until you get a rough pulp.
4. Add the eggs to the orange puree and blend gently to combine.
5. Incorporate the brown sugar, almond meal, lemon juice, and baking powder. Blend until well combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, cover with foil, and bake for 40 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before inverting onto a plate and decorating.

Notes

• Almond meal: Also known as almond flour, it's easy to find in stores.
• Baking powder: Make sure it's gluten-free if necessary.
• Topping options: Consider alternatives like shaved chocolate, candied lemon slices, or a dusting of icing sugar.
• Presentation: Decorate with fresh blueberries or lemon zest for added color.
• Plain option: Sometimes, just leaving it plain is the best.

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