Immerse yourself in the subtle, refreshing taste of this Orange Water Sponge Cake, a delightful dessert that showcases the light and airy texture achievable with simple, wholesome ingredients. Infused with the zest of fresh oranges and made using orange-infused water, this cake stands out for its delicate citrus flavor and moist crumb, making it a fantastic treat for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe: This sponge cake is perfect for those who appreciate desserts that are not overly sweet. The inclusion of orange water offers a unique twist on traditional flavors, providing a refreshing zest that enhances the overall taste without overpowering it. The cake's light texture and bright flavors make it ideal for pairing with tea or a light dessert wine.
Perfect Occasion: This cake is versatile enough for afternoon teas, brunches, or as an elegant dessert after a family dinner. It’s also an excellent choice for baking beginners due to its straightforward method and uncomplicated ingredients.
Decoration Tips: For a beautifully simple presentation, dust the cake with powdered sugar and garnish with orange zest or thin orange slices. If serving at a special event, you might consider decorating with edible flowers or pairing slices of the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggs (preferably from free-range chickens)
- 135g sugar
- 85g sunflower oil
- 85g water at room temperature (infused with orange zest for added flavor, optional)
- Zest of one orange
- 130g pastry flour
- A pinch of salt
- 7g baking powder
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (347°F) and lining a cake mold with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes pale and fluffy.
- Reduce the mixer speed and gradually add the oil in a steady stream to incorporate fully without deflating the mixture.
- Mix in the water and orange zest, ensuring even distribution.
- Sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder, and fold them into the wet ingredients gently to avoid overmixing.
2. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared mold, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly in the mold before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy this Orange Water Sponge Cake as a marvelous addition to your dessert repertoire. Its exceptional flavor and texture make it a sure favorite for those seeking a dessert that's both delicious and straightforward. Perfect for sharing or enjoying a slice on a quiet afternoon.