If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like home and authenticity, the Apple and Orange Cake is your heart’s recipe. In this version, the sweetness of apples meets the freshness of orange juice, creating an incredibly fragrant and soft dough.
The peculiarity of this cake is that the apples are not only on top but entirely embraced by the dough, making every bite moist and delicious. To top it all off, a sprinkle of sliced almonds and my little trick of preparing the pan with breadcrumbs for a delicious crust. Make it with me: you’ll see how simple it is to treat yourself to a special indulgence!
If you love apple desserts, try the 12 Spoon Apple Cake, the Invisible Apple Cake, the 5-Minute Apple, Jam, and Almond Cake, or the Apple Bread.
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MORE APPLE RECIPES
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Inexpensive
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 8 People
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All Seasons
Ingredients for Preparing the Super Soft Apple and Orange Cake
- 3 apples
- 1.6 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 0.55 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 0.4 cup orange juice (strained)
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 1 orange (zest)
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 0.2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
Steps for Preparing the Super Soft Apple and Orange Cake
Start by peeling the apples. Core them and slice into thin slices. Collect the slices in a bowl and thoroughly coat them withstrained lemon juice: this step is crucial to prevent browning and add an extra aromatic note.
In a large bowl, crack the 3 eggs, add the sugar, and start beating the mixture with electric beaters. Continue until you get a nice light and voluminous foam. While still beating, gradually add the vegetable oil.
Sift the flour and baking powder directly into the bowl. Add them to the eggs along with the strained orange juice and mix with a hand whisk to combine everything well. To finish your batter, add the grated orange zest, a pinch of salt, and the apples you prepared. Gently stir with a spoon to evenly distribute the fruit.
Take a baking pan and brush it with a little vegetable oil, then sprinkle it with breadcrumbs (you’ll love the crust!). Pour in your batter, level it, and finish by sprinkling the top with sliced almonds. Bake in a preheated static oven at 350°F for about 40-45 minutes. Before removing from the oven, always perform the toothpick test to ensure the inside is dry.
Once baked and slightly cooled, bring your cake to the table after sprinkling it with plenty of powdered sugar.
TIPS FOR A PERFECT RESULT
Why breadcrumbs? It’s a grandmother’s trick I love: it replaces flour to prevent the cake from sticking, but gives a more rustic texture to the base and edges.
Electric beaters: Take the time to beat the eggs and sugar; the more foamy the mixture, the lighter your cake will be, like a cloud.
Strained juice: Always strain orange and lemon juice to avoid pulp or seeds in the batter, keeping it smooth and perfect.
DELICIOUS VARIATIONS
Cinnamon aroma: If you love spicy flavors, you can add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the apples while they rest in the lemon.
Toasted almonds: For an even bolder flavor, you can lightly toast the sliced almonds in a pan before placing them on the cake.
Lactose-free: This recipe is naturally lactose-free, perfect for those with this dietary need without sacrificing taste!
HOW TO STORE YOUR APPLE CAKE
At room temperature: Store it under a glass dome or in a cake container: it will stay soft for 2-3 days.
In the fridge: If you prefer longer storage, put it in the fridge. However, I suggest slightly warming your slice before eating it to regain all the softness of the dough.
NOW IT’S YOUR TURN
I hope this Apple and Orange Cake gives you a sweet awakening! It’s a recipe that smells like home and will impress with very few steps.
If you decide to make it, take a photo and tag me on social media: I’m always curious to see your kitchen masterpieces and repost your photos in my stories!
And you? Do you have any secret tricks for apple cake? Let me know in the comments below, I always love learning new kitchen tips!
FAQ – YOUR MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS
Can I use red apples?
Absolutely! Any kind of apple you have will do, Golden are sweeter, Granny Smith are tarter.
Can I replace the almonds?
If you don’t like them or are allergic, you can use hazelnut granules or omit them altogether.
What if the top gets too dark?
Every oven is different. If after 30 minutes you see the almonds are already too dark, cover the pan with aluminum foil and continue baking.
