Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup 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
- 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (optional)
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Grater
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the cake pan with butter and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Add the orange juice, orange zest, and orange liqueur (if using) and mix until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 305
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Salted butter
- Granulated sugar: Brown sugar
- Orange juice: Lemon juice
- Orange liqueur: Grand Marnier
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Replace the orange juice and zest with lemon juice and zest for a lemon-flavored cake.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- To get the most orange flavor, use both the zest and the juice.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the cake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest.
Garnishes:
- Orange zest
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Ice cream
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, add a few tablespoons of orange juice to the batter.
- If the cake is too wet, add a few tablespoons of flour to the batter.
Food Safety Advice:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate any leftovers and consume within 4 days.
Food History:
Nantais Orange Cake is a classic French dessert that originated in the city of Nantes in the 19th century. It is a light and fluffy cake made with freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, giving it a unique and refreshing flavor.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a light and fluffy texture with a subtle orange flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of orange zest.
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of orange liqueur.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: French