Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Name: Sicilian Whole Orange Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 eggs; 1 ⅛ cups sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 ½ tsp baking powder; ⅓ cup softened butter; ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 large organic orange (washed, cut into pieces); 2 ½ oz freshly squeezed orange juice

Published: December 14, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake can be whipped up in no time.
Citrusy Delight: The whole orange adds a vibrant flavor that makes every slice refreshing and delicious.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a dessert, a sweet breakfast treat, or even with tea in the afternoon.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields enough to serve 10 people, making it ideal for gatherings and family events.
Moist Texture: Thanks to the yogurt and whole orange, this cake stays moist and tender for days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Sicilian Whole Orange Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula
9-inch round cake pan
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and airy batter for a fluffy cake texture.
Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are mixed well.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Sicilian Whole Orange Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

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

How to Make Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on a clean workspace. Cut up the orange into pieces while ensuring you keep the rind.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in softened butter and Greek yogurt; mix until well combined.
3. If using plain baking powder, add vanilla extract at this stage.

Step 4: Incorporate Orange Pieces

Add the chopped orange pieces along with freshly squeezed orange juice into your mixture. Blend until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together flour and baking powder.
2. Gradually fold this mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated oven for about 55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Sicilian Whole Orange Cake!

How to Serve Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, consider these serving ideas to elevate your experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

Strawberries: Their sweetness complements the orange flavor.
Blueberries: A burst of tanginess balances the cake’s richness.
Raspberries: Add a pop of color and tartness to each slice.

Serve with Creamy Toppings

Whipped Cream: Lightens up the cake and adds a fluffy texture.
Greek Yogurt: A healthier option that adds creaminess and tang.

Add a Citrus Glaze

Orange Zest Glaze: Drizzle over the cake for an extra citrus kick.
Lemon Icing: Offers a refreshing contrast to the orange flavor.

Accompany with Tea or Coffee

Herbal Tea: A calming beverage that enhances the dessert experience.
Espresso: The bold flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Achieving the perfect Sicilian Whole Orange Cake takes attention to detail. Follow these tips for a successful bake.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh oranges enhance flavor and aroma, making your cake truly special.
Measure accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar ensures the right texture and taste.
Check for doneness: Use a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center when the cake is fully baked.
Cool completely before serving: This helps improve sliceability and enhances flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes alongside your Sicilian Whole Orange Cake. They add variety and balance to your dessert experience.

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits pairs wonderfully with citrus flavors.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides savory options that balance sweetness.
Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate contrasts beautifully with light orange cake for dessert lovers.
Pistachio Ice Cream: The nutty flavor adds another layer to your dessert experience.
Coconut Macaroons: Sweet, chewy treats that enhance tropical vibes when served together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your experience making Sicilian Whole Orange Cake. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Using unripe oranges: Always select ripe, sweet, and organic oranges for the best flavor. Check for vibrant color and a fragrant aroma.
Neglecting to measure accurately: Baking is a science! Use precise measurements for sugar, flour, and other ingredients to ensure perfect texture and taste.
Skipping the orange peel: The peel adds essential oils that enhance flavor. Don’t forget to include it when blending the whole orange.
Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy texture.
Not checking doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean from the center when fully baked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container.
It will last up to 5 days in the fridge, keeping it fresh and moist.

Freezing Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat slices on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sicilian Whole Orange Cake unique?

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is unique because it uses an entire orange, including the peel, which imparts a rich flavor and moisture that traditional cakes lack.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Absolutely! You can substitute oranges with lemons or grapefruits for a different flavor profile while keeping the recipe intact.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Is Sicilian Whole Orange Cake suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This Sicilian Whole Orange Cake recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients.

How can I customize my Sicilian Whole Orange Cake?

Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or spices like cinnamon or cardamom to personalize your cake while still keeping its delightful essence.

Final Thoughts

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake is not only luscious but also incredibly versatile. Its unique use of whole oranges delivers a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or serving it with whipped cream or yogurt. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try today!

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