Semolina and orange cake, a delightful treat with origins in the Mediterranean, offers a unique texture and citrusy flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The semolina flour creates a wonderfully crumbly texture, while the orange zest and juice infuse a burst of freshness in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is surprisingly simple and promises a rewarding baking experience.
Dive into a Slice of Sunshine: Let’s Get Baking!
This recipe is incredibly versatile – enjoy it plain for a simple delight, dust it with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, or pair it with a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this semolina and orange cake is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (125g) fine semolina flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tools of the Trade:
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- 2 mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Zester or grater
- Juicer (optional)
- Toothpick or cake tester
Step-by-Step Guide to a Delicious Cake:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and clean-up!
2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, semolina flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for a beautifully risen cake.
3. Cream Together for Flavor and Texture:
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a tender crumb.
4. Zest in the Sunshine:
- Add the orange zest to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined. Pro tip: For the most intense orange flavor, use a fine-mesh zester to remove only the outermost layer of the orange peel.
5. Incorporate the Eggs:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
6. Alternate Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the orange juice, and beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix!
7. A Touch of Vanilla:
- Stir in the vanilla extract. Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake and adds a warm note.
8. Transfer and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cooling Time:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from breaking apart and allows it to set properly.
Tips and Tricks for Baking Success:
- Semolina flour tip: If you don’t have fine semolina flour, you can pulse regular semolina flour in a food processor or blender a few times to create a finer texture.
- Orange juice tip: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice. If you’re short on time, good quality store-bought orange juice will work as well.
- Testing for doneness: To check if your cake is done, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, it’s ready.
- Storage: Once cooled completely, store your semolina and orange cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Presentation is Everything:
- Dust it off: Dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant look.
- Citrusy glaze: Drizzle a simple orange glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Fresh fruit topping: Top the cake with fresh orange slices or berries for a vibrant and refreshing presentation.
Mixing semolina and orange cake batter in a bowl.
Semolina and orange cake sliced on a plate.
This semolina and orange cake recipe is a delightful journey for your taste buds, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and embark on this baking adventure today! Be sure to share your baking triumphs with us in the comments below – we’d love to see your creations! And don’t forget to explore our website for more delicious recipes and baking inspiration.
