Portuguese orange cake

Hey there, my friends! Today, I am thrilled to share with you a recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress everyone around you: Portuguese orange cake with a twist of olive oil. This delectable treat is light, fluffy, and bursting with the vibrant flavors of citrus. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, ensuring that you can enjoy a taste of Portugal without any fuss.

Prepare to be amazed by the delightful simplicity of this traditional Portuguese dessert. With just a handful of pantry staples – flour, sugar, eggs, and, of course, oranges – you can create a cake that embodies the essence of Portuguese cuisine. But here’s the secret ingredient: olive oil. This addition lends a subtle richness and depth of flavor that elevates the cake to a whole new level of deliciousness.

One of the things I absolutely adore about this cake is its versatility. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re serving it at brunch, as a delightful after-dinner treat, or even as an elegant dessert for a special celebration. To take it up a notch, consider garnishing it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a generous scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream.

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the recipe, though – this cake is packed with flavor. The combination of freshly squeezed orange juice and zest infuses the cake with a tangy and bright taste, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the sugar. And let’s not forget the star of the show – the olive oil – which imparts a subtle richness that will leave you craving more.

The best part? Making this cake is an absolute breeze. With just a few basic ingredients and an hour of your time, you’ll have a moist and fluffy cake that will steal the spotlight at any gathering.

So, if you’re in search of a mouthwatering dessert that’s both effortless and bursting with flavor, give this Portuguese orange cake with olive oil a try. I guarantee it will become a new favorite in your repertoire.

INGREDIENTS

• Juice of 1 large orange
• 2 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of olive oil
• 1 and 1/2 cups of sugar
• 3 eggs
• 3 tablespoons of plain yogurt
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• Zest of 1 orange

INSTRUCTIONS

1. To start, preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a cake pan. Set it aside as you prepare the batter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until they achieve a light and fluffy consistency. Now, add in the olive oil, orange juice, and yogurt, and mix until everything is well combined.
3. Next, incorporate the orange zest and gradually sift in the flour, stirring until the batter is well combined. Finally, add in the salt and baking powder, giving the batter one last gentle stir.
4. Pour the luscious batter into your prepared cake pan and bake for approximately 45 minutes. Once it’s perfectly baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before serving.
5. Voilà! This splendid orange and olive oil cake is simply delightful for brunch, as a sweet treat after a delicious dinner, or any time you desire a burst of citrusy bliss. Enjoy every moment!

NOTES

• For an intensified citrus flavor, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly grated orange zest. These will infuse the cake with a vibrant and natural essence.
• Elevate the flavor profile of your cake by using a high-quality olive oil. Look for an extra-virgin olive oil with a fruity and slightly bitter taste, as it will perfectly complement the cake’s sweetness and add a subtle richness to the overall experience.
• If you’re in the mood for a more textured cake, consider adding some chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter. Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, dried cranberries, or raisins would all be excellent choices, providing a delightful crunch in every bite.
• To introduce an extra burst of citrus, try incorporating some lemon zest or lemon juice into the batter. This will add a tangy and invigorating note that beautifully balances the sweetness of the orange.
• Indulge yourself by serving this cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream. The creamy accompaniments will harmonize with the citrus flavors and introduce an additional layer of lusciousness to each delectable mouthful.
• For an exquisite presentation, consider dusting the top of the cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzling it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. These finishing touches will add a touch of sweetness and make the cake even more visually appealing.