The Unexpected Magic of Simplicity

Who says you need eggs or milk to create a phenomenal cake? This orange-infused wonder defies baking conventions, proving that sometimes the simplest ingredients can create the most extraordinary results. Get ready for a cake that’s moist, tender, and bursting with citrusy brightness!

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients:

• Orange Juice: 200 ml (3/4 cup)
• Sugar: 130 g (2/3 cup)
• Vanilla Extract: 1/2 tsp
• Vegetable Oil: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
• Boiling Water: 80 ml (1/3 cup)
• Vinegar: 1 tbsp
• Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon

Dry Ingredients:

• All-Purpose Flour: 300 g (2 cups)
• Baking Powder: 15 g
• Apricot Jam: For glaze (optional)

Equipment

• 20 cm (8 inch) baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Butter for greasing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Cake Pan:
   • Grease the pan with butter
   • Line the bottom with parchment paper
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   • Combine orange juice and sugar
   • Stir until sugar completely dissolves
   • Add vanilla extract
   • Mix in vegetable oil
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • Sift flour and baking powder together
   • Add lemon zest
   • Sift a second time for extra lightness
5. Final Mixing:
   • Add vinegar to wet ingredients
   • Pour boiling water into mixture
   • Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet
   • Mix until just combined (do not overmix)
6. Baking:
   • Pour batter into prepared pan
   • Bake for 40-45 minutes
   • Test with a toothpick for doneness
   • Cake is ready when toothpick comes out clean
7. Finishing Touch:
   • Cool in pan for 10 minutes
   • Remove and cool completely on wire rack
   • Optional: Brush with warm apricot jam for extra shine

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250-300
• Total Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Cooking Tips and Tricks

• Use fresh orange juice for best flavor
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep cake tender
• Ensure ingredients are at room temperature
• Sifting flour twice creates a lighter texture
• Check cake a few minutes early to prevent overbaking

Variations and Substitutions

• Replace orange juice with lemon juice
• Add almond extract for depth
• Sprinkle powdered sugar instead of jam glaze
• Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste
• Add poppy seeds for texture

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bottled orange juice? Fresh is best, but good quality bottled works too
2. How do I store this cake? Room temperature, covered, for 3-4 days
3. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month
4. What if I don’t have vinegar? Lemon juice can be a good substitute
5. Is this cake suitable for vegans? Yes, it’s naturally vegan-friendly!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in airtight container
• Best consumed within 3-4 days
• Can be made a day ahead
• Tastes even better the next day!

Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly simple yet delicious orange cake!