This Gluten-Free Orange Coconut Cake is a vibrant and wholesome treat that combines the citrusy zest of fresh oranges with the tropical sweetness of coconut. Made with a homemade blend of gluten-free flours and sweetened naturally with demerara sugar or xylitol, this cake is perfect for those looking to indulge without the gluten and lactose. Its moist, fluffy texture and refreshing flavor make it a fantastic dessert for any season.
Why You'll Love This: If you're looking for a dessert that feels indulgent yet remains mindful of dietary restrictions, this Orange Coconut Cake is ideal. The natural sweetness of the orange pairs wonderfully with the nutty flavor of coconut, creating a cake that's both flavorful and satisfying. The use of gluten-free flours ensures that everyone can enjoy a slice without worry, making it a great option for gatherings where dietary needs are varied.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is perfect for brunches, afternoon tea parties, or as a celebratory dessert for birthdays and special occasions. It's particularly fitting for summer gatherings or tropical-themed parties, but its sunny flavors can brighten up even the dreariest winter days.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup demerara sugar or xylitol
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 200ml orange juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups homemade gluten-free flour mix (see below)
- 100g dried coconut flakes
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- For the Gluten-Free Flour Mix:
- 1/2 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup tapioca starch
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
Instructions:
- Prepare the Flour Mix:
- Combine rice flour, tapioca starch, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- In a blender, combine the eggs, sugar, and coconut oil. Blend until smooth.
- Gradually add the gluten-free flour mix and orange juice to the blender, and blend until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Add the dried coconut flakes and baking powder, and pulse a few times to incorporate gently.
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Grease a cake pan with a little coconut oil and lightly dust it with some of the gluten-free flour mix.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Finishing Touches:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, sprinkle the top of the cake with additional coconut flakes for decoration.
Enjoy this delightful Gluten-Free Orange Coconut Cake, a perfect treat that brings a taste of the tropics right to your table, suitable for everyone to enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions!