Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor, then this Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is just the treat for you! This cake is a family favorite in my home, and it never fails to impress guests at gatherings. Imagine biting into a soft, moist slice of orange cake that captures the essence of sunny Sicily with every bite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to bring a bit of joy to your table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. You get to use a whole orange—skin and all—allowing the natural flavors to shine through without any fuss. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon with tea or celebrating a birthday, this cake is sure to be the star of the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have this cake ready in no time—perfect for those hectic days!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a slice of this sweet, citrusy delight. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for up to three days. The flavors only get better as it sits!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream for an extra touch.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the whole orange and Greek yogurt, each bite is incredibly moist and packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this Sicilian Whole Orange Cake! You probably have many of these items in your pantry already.

For the Cake

• 3 eggs
• 1 ⅛ cups sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder (OR 1 packet Italian Pane Degli Angeli vanilla baking powder)
• ⅓ cup butter (salted, softened)
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt (plain; sour cream works too)
• 1 orange (approximately 1 large fresh, sweet, organic: washed and cut into pieces; keep the rind, but remove the seeds)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (ONLY USE IF USING PLAIN BAKING POWDER)
• 2 ½ oz orange juice (freshly squeezed juice of one large organic orange)
• 3 Tbsp sugar

Variations

This Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment and make it your own:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Swap out the orange for lemon or grapefruit if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm spice note that complements the citrus.
• Frosting Option: Top with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for an extra sweet touch.

How to Make Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because starting with an adequately heated oven ensures even baking. A hot oven helps create that lovely rise we want in our cake!

Step 2: Prepare the Orange

Take your washed orange and cut it into pieces. Be sure to remove any seeds but keep the rind on! The rind adds amazing flavor to the cake, making it uniquely aromatic and delicious.

Step 3: Blend Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine your orange pieces, eggs, Greek yogurt, sugar, and melted butter. Blend until smooth. This step infuses your cake with vibrant orange flavor while keeping it super moist.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your flour and baking powder. If you’re using plain baking powder, add in the vanilla extract here as well. Mixing dry ingredients separately helps ensure even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Pour the blended mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; don’t overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine—this keeps your cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me; it’s heavenly!

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy

Once baked, allow your Sicilian Whole Orange Cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing—it’s hard not to dig in right away!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dessert! Serve it plain or dress it up according to your mood!

Pro Tips for Making Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Baking this Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use organic oranges: Organic oranges are usually sweeter and more flavorful, enhancing the overall taste of the cake. Plus, you can use the zest and peel without worrying about pesticides.
• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more smoothly and contributes to a lighter, fluffier texture in your cake.
• Don’t skip the yogurt: The addition of Greek yogurt not only keeps the cake moist but also adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the sugar. It’s a simple ingredient that makes a big difference!
• Check for doneness with a toothpick: When baking, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready. This prevents overbaking and ensures it stays moist.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing your cake to cool completely before slicing helps it set properly and makes for cleaner cuts. It also allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully!

How to Serve Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

This cake is as delightful to present as it is to eat! Here are some ideas to make your serving experience even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the visual appeal without overwhelming the flavor.
• Fresh orange slices: Adding thin, fresh orange slices on top not only looks beautiful but also reinforces the zesty flavor profile of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Sweetened whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free alternative that complements the citrus flavors wonderfully! Just whip some coconut cream with a hint of vanilla and sugar until fluffy.
• Berry salad: A mix of fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Toss them with a bit of lemon juice for added zing.
• Herbed yogurt dip: Combining plain yogurt with fresh herbs like mint or basil creates a savory dip that pairs surprisingly well with sweet desserts like this orange cake.
• Citrus sorbet: Refreshing and light, citrus sorbet is perfect for cleansing the palate after indulging in this rich dessert. It ties in beautifully with the orange theme too!

Enjoy making and sharing your Sicilian Whole Orange Cake – it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is not only delightful to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen and making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual portions for easy serving.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature.
• If you prefer warm cake, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Avoid overheating to keep the cake moist and tender.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dessert!

Can I make Sicilian Whole Orange Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be tasty!

What makes Sicilian Whole Orange Cake so moist?

The use of whole oranges gives this cake its unique moisture and a burst of flavor. Additionally, the combination of butter and Greek yogurt adds richness while keeping it light.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights oranges, feel free to experiment with lemons or limes. Just adjust the sugar according to the fruit’s sweetness.

How do I ensure my Sicilian Whole Orange Cake rises perfectly?

Make sure your baking powder is fresh and active. Also, don’t skip sifting your flour; it helps incorporate air into the batter, leading to a fluffier cake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Sicilian Whole Orange Cake as much as I do! It’s truly a special recipe that brings sweetness and warmth into any gathering. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this cake is bound to impress. Happy baking!