This Zesty Orange and Almond Cake is the ultimate treat for those who love the fresh, vibrant flavor of citrus combined with the rich, nutty taste of almonds. Baked to perfection, this cake boasts a soft, fluffy texture with a fragrant orange aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. The addition of almond flour adds a delicate richness, while the orange zest and juice create a bright, refreshing burst of flavor in every bite. Topped with sliced almonds and a sprinkle of sugar, this cake offers a beautiful crunch to contrast the tender crumb beneath.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this cake for its perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The combination of orange and almond is classic, but this recipe takes it to another level with the addition of yogurt, which keeps the cake incredibly moist and soft. It’s not too sweet, making it versatile enough to enjoy at any time of day—whether for breakfast, as a snack, or with afternoon tea. Plus, the quick prep and easy ingredients mean you don’t have to be an expert baker to get amazing results. The cake is so delicious that you’ll find yourself going back for seconds, and it’s hard to resist when it’s still warm from the oven.
Perfect Occasion
This orange and almond cake is perfect for casual weekend baking or when you want something comforting but impressive. It’s great for family gatherings, brunch with friends, or even as a light dessert after dinner. The bright citrus flavors make it ideal for spring and summer occasions, but the warmth of the almonds also gives it a cozy feel, making it suitable for any season. It’s the kind of cake you’ll want to bring to potlucks or serve during holidays, and it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Decoration Tips
For a beautiful finish, top the cake with a generous handful of almond slices before baking, so they toast lightly in the oven. Once baked, you can add a bit more zest from fresh oranges and a sprinkle of sugar for added sparkle and flavor. If you want to take it up a notch, you could drizzle a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the top once the cake has cooled slightly. A few fresh orange slices or edible flowers placed on top could add a touch of elegance, especially if you’re serving it for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 160 grams of sugar
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 120 grams of melted butter
- Juice of 2 oranges
- 2 large eggs
- 100 grams of Greek or natural yogurt
- 190 grams of self-raising cake flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 50 grams of almond flour (ground almonds)
- Sliced almonds, extra sugar, and orange zest for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a loaf pan or a round cake tin no larger than 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter for even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and orange zest. Rub the zest into the sugar using your fingers to release the aromatic oils from the orange. This step enhances the citrus flavor throughout the cake.
- Add the melted butter, orange juice, eggs, and yogurt to the sugar mixture. Whisk everything together until smooth and fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and baking powder. Add the almond flour, then slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top. Sprinkle sliced almonds and a bit of extra sugar over the surface for a crunchy, sweet topping.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before removing it. Enjoy it warm for the best flavor and texture—super soft and bursting with citrus!
Enjoy this delightful orange and almond cake with your family or friends, savoring every zesty, nutty bite!