Cake > European Cakes > Basque

Basque Orange Cake Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup freshly grated orange zest
- 1/2 cup buttermilk

Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Hand mixer
- Whisk
- Grater

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together with a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
5. Add the vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest, and mix until combined.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two batches, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Salted butter
- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar
- Orange juice: Lemon juice
- Buttermilk: Plain yogurt

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the batter
- Substitute the orange zest and juice with lemon zest and juice
- Add 1/2 cup of dried fruit to the batter

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly grated orange zest for the best flavor
- Use a light hand when mixing the batter to avoid overmixing

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream
- Drizzle with melted chocolate

Garnishes:
- Chopped nuts
- Candied orange slices
- Chocolate shavings

Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
- Orange liqueur

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a bit more orange juice
- If the cake is too wet, add a bit more flour

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before using
- Make sure the eggs are fresh
- Make sure the butter is unsalted

Food History:
Basque Orange Cake is a traditional Basque cake that is believed to have originated in the Basque Country of Spain. It is a simple cake that is made with orange juice and zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a bright, citrusy flavor from the orange juice and zest, and a subtle sweetness from the sugar.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an after-dinner dessert
- Serve as a snack with coffee or tea
- Serve as a breakfast or brunch treat

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Region: Spanish

Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Citrusy, Aromatic, Moist