This vibrant Orange Cake embodies the essence of citrus joy, complemented by a sweet apricot glaze and a sprinkling of coconut. Infused with fresh orange juice and optional zest, this cake offers a burst of fresh, tangy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the sunflower oil. The apricot marmalade glaze adds a layer of fruity sweetness, while the coconut provides a delightful texture and tropical flair.
Why You’ll Love This: The combination of orange and apricot brings a refreshing twist to the traditional cake, making it irresistibly moist and flavorful. The coconut topping not only adds a pleasant crunch but also enhances the cake’s visual appeal with its snowy appearance. This cake is simple yet sophisticated, offering a taste of summer any time of the year.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for afternoon tea, brunch, or as a celebratory dessert during spring and summer gatherings. It’s also a perfect treat for Mother’s Day, Easter, or any occasion that calls for a light, refreshing dessert. The bright flavors and cheerful appearance make it a hit at both casual and formal events.
Decoration Tips: For an elegant finish, ensure the apricot glaze is evenly spread over the top and sides of the cake. After sprinkling with coconut, consider garnishing with orange zest strips or thin orange slices for an extra pop of color. Serve on a pretty cake stand to enhance its visual appeal.
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 150 grams of granulated sugar
- 150 ml of sunflower oil
- 150 ml of fresh orange juice
- Optional: Grated zest of one orange
- 220 grams of all-purpose flour
- 15 grams of baking powder
- Apricot marmalade for glazing
- Shredded coconut for topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt using an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and doubled in volume.
- Switch to a manual whisk and gradually incorporate the sunflower oil, followed by the orange juice, mixing well after each addition.
- If using, add the grated orange zest for an enhanced citrus flavor.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder gradually, mixing gently to maintain the batter’s airy texture.
- Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into a 26 cm diameter cake pan lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Glaze and Decorate:
- Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, brush the top and sides with apricot marmalade.
- Generously sprinkle shredded coconut over the glaze, covering the surface evenly.
- Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. Serve as a delightful end to a meal or as a special treat with tea or coffee.
Enjoy this delightful Orange Cake, where the sunny flavors of orange and apricot meet the exotic taste of coconut in a perfect symphony of taste and texture!
