When it comes to the festive season, Norway is renowned for its delightful Christmas traditions, especially when it comes to baking. One classic Norwegian treat that’s a staple during the holiday season is the delicious Appelsinkake, a moist and flavorful orange cake that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Bursting with citrus goodness, this cake is a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering or cozy evening at home. Let’s dive into the recipe for this delightful Norwegian Christmas baking classic, the Appelsinkake Orange Cake.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 large oranges
– 4 eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Oranges:** Start by washing the oranges thoroughly under running water. Cut the oranges into quarters, remove any seeds, and then place them in a saucepan. Fill the saucepan with water until the oranges are fully covered. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer the oranges for about 1 hour, or until they are soft.
2. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a round cake pan by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
3. **Blend the Oranges:** Once the oranges are soft, drain them and allow them to cool slightly. Transfer the cooked oranges to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
4. **Whisk the Eggs and Sugar:** In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.
5. **Add Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg and sugar mixture, folding gently until just combined.
6. **Incorporate Melted Butter and Orange Puree:** Slowly pour the melted butter into the batter, stirring gently until well incorporated. Then, fold in the blended orange puree, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. **Bake the Cake:** Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool and Serve:** Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
The Appelsinkake Orange Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of a traditional Norwegian Christmas. With its bright citrus flavor and moist texture, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family during the holiday season. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or serve it as part of your holiday dessert spread, the Appelsinkake Orange Cake is a festive addition to any celebration. Add a touch of Scandinavian flair to your Christmas baking this year with this simple and delicious recipe!
