Orange Ginger Delight: A Zesty and Fragrant Dessert

Quick Benefits

Orange Ginger Delight is a moist, aromatic cake bursting with citrus flavor and a subtle hint of spicy ginger. Made with whole oranges and ground almonds, this gluten-free dessert is both light and satisfying. Topped with a tangy lemon and sugar crystal glaze, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion.

Essential Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• About 600 g of organic oranges, either 3 small or 2 large ones
• 6 jumbo eggs
• 200 g granulated sugar
• 250 g ground almonds
• A knob of fresh ginger, about thumbnail size
• 1/4 cup chopped candied ginger
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

Topping

• Juice and zest from a single lemon
• 60 g of sugar crystals

Preparation Steps

1. Set the oven to 180°C (360°F). Lightly oil a springform pan measuring 24 cm (10 inches).
2. Rinse the oranges thoroughly. Toss them in a medium pot, add water to cover, and let them simmer over medium heat for about two hours. Top up with hot water if needed. Drain, allow to cool, quarter them, and blend into a smooth paste using a processor, blender, or mill.
3. Peel and mince the fresh ginger. Finely dice candied ginger. Use a fork to beat the eggs in a big bowl. Stir in the orange puree, sugar, ground almonds, baking soda, and fresh ginger. Lastly, gently mix in the candied ginger pieces.
4. Tip the batter into the greased pan and bake for 45 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden, and a toothpick poked in the middle comes out clean. Set it aside to cool on a wire rack before frosting.
5. In a small dish, blend lemon zest and juice with the sugar crystals. Spread this mixture evenly across the cake’s surface. Wait until the cake is fully cool before slicing and serving.

Health Benefits

This cake is gluten-free, thanks to ground almonds, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Oranges are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while ginger supports digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. The use of whole fruit adds fiber and natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Orange Ginger Delight with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra zing, drizzle a little orange syrup or caramel sauce over each slice.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Ginger Twist: Add 100 g of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a richer flavor.
• Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Spiced Touch: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or cardamom into the batter for a warm, spiced undertone.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips

• Simmer the oranges until completely soft to ensure smooth blending.
• Use organic oranges to avoid pesticide residues since the whole fruit is used.
• Let the cake cool fully before adding the glaze to maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use clementines or tangerines instead of oranges? A: Yes, just ensure they are seedless and adjust the sweetness as needed.

Q: Can I make this cake without the ginger? A: Absolutely! You can omit both fresh and candied ginger if you prefer a purely citrus flavor.

Q: How do I know if the cake is done? A: The top should be golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

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