Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- Pinch of salt
- 200 grams (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) freshly squeezed orange juice
- Grated zest of 1 large orange
- 220 grams (1 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Honey, for drizzling
- Coconut flakes, for topping
Directions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and pinch of salt until frothy. Gradually add the sugar, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes pale and creamy.
- Add the vegetable oil and orange juice, whisking until well combined. Stir in the grated orange zest for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Add dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Bake the cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and decorate:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle generously with honey and sprinkle with coconut flakes for a delightful finish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
- Top with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Garnish with fresh orange segments for an extra citrusy touch.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a touch of indulgence.
Cooking Tips:
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor and aroma.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a dense cake texture.
- Adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar to 150 grams (3/4 cup) if preferred.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake—it should come out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before decorating to prevent the honey and coconut flakes from melting or sinking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in vitamin C from the orange juice and zest, supporting immune health.
- Contains healthy fats from vegetable oil, promoting satiety.
- Provides a source of energy from sugar and carbohydrates, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
- Coconut flakes add healthy fats and a delightful texture.
- Free from artificial flavors, relying on natural orange zest for freshness.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat products.
- Dairy-free, as it uses no milk or butter.
- Nut-free, suitable for those with nut allergies.
- Sweetness can be adjusted with the honey drizzle to suit individual preferences.
- Easily customizable by adding flavors like vanilla or almond extract.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
Storage:
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Bright citrus flavor: The combination of orange juice and zest creates a fresh and vibrant taste.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Perfect balance of sweetness: The honey drizzle adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the citrus flavor.
- Light and fluffy texture: The cake is soft and airy, perfect for any time of day.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast with a cup of coffee.
Conclusion:
This Moist and Flavorful Orange Cake with Honey and Coconut Flakes is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The fresh orange flavor combined with the sweetness of honey and the texture of coconut flakes makes this cake truly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a special event or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, it’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy!
