Moist Flourless Orange & Cardamom Almond Cake

When it comes to baking, nothing feels more rewarding than creating a delicious cake that is both moist and full of flavor. The Moist Flourless Orange & Cardamom Almond Cake is a delightful treat that showcases the bright, zesty flavors of oranges and the aromatic spice of cardamom. This cake is not only gluten-free but also incredibly simple to make, using wholesome ingredients like ground almonds and fresh oranges. With its unique flavor profile and moist texture, it is an excellent choice for any occasion—be it a family gathering, a special celebration, or just a simple afternoon snack with tea.

One of the best parts about this cake is that it uses whole oranges, peel and all, which not only infuses the cake with a rich citrusy flavor but also adds a beautiful rustic texture. The combination of almond flour and the natural sweetness from the oranges creates a cake that is light yet satisfying. Topped with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch and color, a sprinkle of chopped pistachios adds a lovely finishing touch.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just starting, the Moist Flourless Orange & Cardamom Almond Cake can easily fit into your repertoire. It is a cake that showcases your ability to produce a homemade dessert that will impress friends and family alike.

Ingredients about Moist Flourless Orange Cake

List of ingredients with measurements

• 2 large oranges (preferably organic, unpeeled)
• 1 1⁄2 cups ground almonds (almond flour)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios (for garnish, optional)

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you’re looking to modify the recipe to suit your dietary preferences, there are several substitutions you can consider. Instead of granulated sugar, you can use coconut sugar or honey. Alternatively, for an even lighter cake, you could substitute half of the almond flour with an equal amount of coconut flour, keeping in mind that coconut flour is more absorbent. For those who want to avoid eggs, you can consider using flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer to maintain the moisture in the cake without the eggs.

How to Make Moist Flourless Orange Cake

Step 1: Prepare the oranges

Begin by preparing the whole oranges. Place the unpeeled oranges in a saucepan, and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about one hour. During this time, the oranges will become soft. Once they are soft, drain the water and let the oranges cool until they are manageable to touch. After they cool, cut them into quarters, remove any seeds you find, and blend the entire orange (peel included) into a smooth puree using a food processor or blender.

Step 2: Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

While the oranges are cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 9-inch circular cake pan ready by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will help the cake come out easily once it’s baked.

Step 3: Mix the batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Once it’s fluffy, add the orange puree you made earlier into the bowl and stir until well mixed. Next, add in the ground almonds, baking powder, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are combined into a smooth batter.

Step 4: Bake the cake

Now it’s time to bake the cake. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, making sure to smooth out the top with a spatula. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Once the cake is baked, take it out and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, gently turn the cake out onto a wire rack and let it cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the glaze

While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the glaze. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and ground cardamom until you achieve a smooth and pourable consistency. Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top. For an added decorative touch and a bit of crunch, sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top.

How to Serve Moist Flourless Orange Cake

Best ways to serve Moist Flourless Orange & Cardamom Almond Cake

The Moist Flourless Orange & Cardamom Almond Cake is delicious on its own or can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The brightness of the orange flavor paired with the creamy toppings creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. If you’re serving this cake at a gathering, consider slicing it into small pieces; its rich flavor means that a little goes a long way.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pair this cake with fresh berries for added color and flavor. Raspberries or strawberries complement the zesty orange beautifully. If you’re looking for a beverage pair, consider serving it with herbal teas, coffee, or even a dessert wine, which can elevate the entire dessert experience.

How to Store Moist Flourless Orange Cake

Proper storage methods

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it; just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap. Because it is gluten-free, the texture may change slightly over time, so try to consume it within a week.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you need to reheat slices of the cake, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds should do the trick, making it warm and inviting. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of the cake. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, or you can leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Tips to Make Moist Flourless Orange Cake

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overmixing the batter, especially after adding ground almonds. This can lead to a denser cake. Instead, mix just until combined to maintain a light and moist texture. Another tip is to ensure the oranges are soft enough. If they are not boiled long enough, the cake might have a slight bitterness from the undercooked peel.

Helpful tips for better results

For an even better texture, consider letting the cake rest for a few hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Remember to use high-quality ground almonds as they can affect the overall taste and texture of your cake. Finally, always check your oven’s temperature accuracy; baking times can vary depending on oven calibration, resulting in differences in baking outcomes.

Variation of Moist Flourless Orange Cake

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

Feel free to play with flavors based on your preferences! If you’re a fan of chocolate, consider adding cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-orange cake. You can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile. Adding a touch of vanilla extract can also elevate the cake’s sweetness.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For those who are vegan, substituting the eggs can turn this delicious cake into a plant-based treat. Use flaxseed or chia seed mixed with water in place of each egg. Also, ensure you are using a plant-based sweetener if you are avoiding sugar, like maple syrup or agave nectar, noting that this may alter the texture slightly.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cake doesn’t seem to be rising, check the freshness of your baking powder. Old baking powder may lose its potency, which affects the rise. Additionally, ensure you’ve mixed the batter appropriately. If it appears too dense, it may have been overmixed after adding the dry ingredients.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake holds up well, so you’re welcome to bake it a day or two ahead of your gathering. Just be sure to store it properly to maintain its moistness.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

You can substitute the ground almonds with other nut flours, such as hazelnut flour or cashew flour, if you prefer a different flavor. If you need to avoid sugar, coconut sugar or other sweeteners can work. Adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level of the substitute you choose.

This cake stands out for its simplicity and exquisite flavor, making it a delightful addition to any dessert table. Enjoy the rich aroma of orange and spices wafting through your kitchen as you prepare the Moist Flourless Orange & Cardamom Almond Cake!

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