Indulge in the ethereal delight of an Orange Chiffon Cake, a spectacular creation with a light sponge texture. This never-fail recipe uses fresh orange zest and juice, infusing the cake with a naturally vibrant flavor. The chiffon cake is then adorned with a luscious Chantilly cream, adding a perfect balance to its tangy lightness.
I affectionately call this masterpiece “Alani,” a pushy recipe that guarantees a heavenly treat for your taste buds. If you have a penchant for light and airy sponge cakes, Orange Chiffon Cake is a must-try. Once you invest in a chiffon cake tin, these delightful creations become an affordable and rewarding addition to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
Creating an Orange Chiffon Cake involves gathering the essential ingredients to achieve its delightful taste and texture. Below are the components divided into two categories: For the Cake and For the Orange Glaze.
For the Cake
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup oil
- Zest and juice of 3 oranges
- 7 egg yolks
- 6 egg whites
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 stick butter (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Equipment Needed
To bake a delicious Orange Chiffon Cake, you will need the following kitchen equipment:
- Angel food tube pan (10-inch)
- Electric stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Sifter
- Rubber spatula
- Whisk
- Cooling rack
- Wooden pick or cake tester
Having these essential tools on hand will ensure a smooth and successful baking experience while creating the perfect airy and moist Orange Chiffon Cake.
Preparation
Preparing the Orange Chiffon Cake involves crucial steps to ensure a light and airy texture with a burst of orange flavor. Follow these detailed instructions to create a delightful treat that will impress your guests.
Prepping the Cake Pan
- Ensure you have an ungreased 17cm (7-inch) chiffon cake pan ready.
- Pour the batter into the pan from a height of about 68 inches at just one spot to prevent air pockets from forming.
- Run a wooden skewer through the batter to release any remaining air pockets.
- Gently tap the pan a few times on the work surface while holding the removable base in place to release any trapped air pockets.
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) to ensure the right baking temperature.
- Place the cake pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven for even baking.
- Bake the Orange Chiffon Cake at 340ºF (170ºC) for 30 minutes until it reaches a golden perfection.
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or wooden skewer into the middle of the cake; if it comes out clean and the top springs back when gently pressed, it’s ready.
- Pro-tip: If the top of the cake browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Directions
Let’s dive into the steps of creating this delightful Orange Chiffon Cake, from making the batter to baking it to perfection.
Making the Cake Batter
First, preheat the oven to 170C (340F) and prepare a 23cm (9-inch) chiffon cake tin. Ensure the tin is not greased and is not non-stick. In a clean bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and sugar. In a separate container, emulsify orange juice, oil, and egg yolks. Gradually combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth. Add in the zest and mix well.
Creating the Meringue
In another clean bowl, whisk the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar while whisking until firm peaks are achieved. Gently fold the meringue into the main batter in four additions, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
Folding in the Meringue
To incorporate the meringue smoothly, add one-third into the batter and mix well. Gently fold in another third of the meringue, ensuring the air bubbles are preserved. Finally, transfer the batter back into the bowl with the remaining egg whites. Fold gently to combine without losing the airiness of the mixture.
Assembling the Cake
Assembling the Orange Chiffon Cake is the final step before indulging in its deliciousness. Follow the steps below to apply the glaze and enhance the cake’s citrusy flavor.
- In a small bowl, prepare the Thick Glaze by combining 1 cup of orange zest, 3 cups of 10X Sugar, 1/2 stick of room temperature butter, 2 tablespoons of orange juice, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla.
- Mix the ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps in the glaze.
- Once the cake has fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or a pastry bag for a more precise application.
- Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving the Orange Chiffon Cake to enjoy the burst of citrus flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Once you have beautifully baked and glazed your Orange Chiffon Cake, it’s time to present and serve this delightful dessert in a way that enhances its flavors and visual appeal. Here are some serving suggestions to make your Orange Chiffon Cake experience even more enjoyable:
1. Fresh Fruit Accompaniment:
Serve slices of Orange Chiffon Cake with a side of fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries, raspberries, or orange segments. The combination of the citrusy cake with the vibrant sweetness of fresh fruit creates a refreshing and balanced dessert.
2. Whipped Cream or Chantilly Cream:
Top each slice of Orange Chiffon Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or Chantilly cream for an indulgent treat. The light and airy texture of the cream complements the soft crumb of the cake, adding an extra layer of luxury to each bite.
3. Citrus Sauce Drizzle:
Elevate the citrus flavor of the Orange Chiffon Cake by drizzling it with a citrus sauce made from fresh orange juice, sugar, and a hint of zest. The tangy sweetness of the sauce enhances the cake’s natural flavors and adds a delightful zing to every forkful.
4. Dusting of Powdered Sugar:
For a simple yet elegant presentation, lightly dust the top of the Orange Chiffon Cake with powdered sugar just before serving. The snowy white finish not only adds a touch of sophistication but also highlights the golden hue of the cake, making it visually appealing.
5. Tea or Coffee Pairing:
Pair slices of Orange Chiffon Cake with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee of your choice. The combination of the cake’s citrus notes with the rich aromas of tea or coffee creates a perfect harmony of flavors for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage Tips
After enjoying a delicious slice of Orange Chiffon Cake, it’s essential to store the remaining cake properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some valuable storage tips to ensure your cake stays moist and tasty for as long as possible:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cake within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, it’s recommended to refrigerate the Orange Chiffon Cake. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. This will help preserve its texture and prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
- Freezing: If you have leftover cake that you want to enjoy at a later time, freezing is a great option. Ensure the cake is completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen Orange Chiffon Cake can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps retain the cake’s moisture and prevents any condensation from forming on the surface.
By following these storage tips, you can savor the delightful taste of your Orange Chiffon Cake for an extended period without compromising its quality.
Conclusion
Creating a scrumptious Orange Chiffon Cake is a delightful culinary experience that promises a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite. By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can master the art of baking this light and airy dessert that is sure to impress your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Remember, the key lies in using fresh orange zest and juice to elevate the flavor profile of the cake. With proper storage techniques, you can savor the Orange Chiffon Cake’s freshness and taste for an extended period. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a flavorful journey with this delectable treat. Happy baking!
