Description
This Sicilian Orange Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring fresh orange zest and juice, complemented by a light orange glaze. Made with olive oil for richness and a hint of orange liqueur for depth, this traditional Italian cake offers a perfect balance of citrusy sweetness and tender crumb. Ideal for a refreshing treat or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 2 large oranges (zested and juiced)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (optional, such as Grand Marnier)
Glaze Ingredients
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined and aerated.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the eggs, olive oil, fresh orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and milk. If using, add the orange liqueur and mix well.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is just smooth. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.
- Pour batter into pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the surface evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Cool completely: Transfer the cake from the pan to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and garnish: Drizzle the orange glaze over the cooled cake and sprinkle with orange zest for a fresh garnish. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh oranges for the best flavor and aroma.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk.
- If you prefer a stronger orange flavor, increase the orange zest or add extra orange liqueur.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
