why make this recipe

Gluten-Free Orange Almond Cake is a delightful treat that suits everyone, especially those who need to avoid gluten. With its moist texture, vibrant orange flavor, and nutty almond taste, this cake is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sweet snack, this cake is sure to please. It’s simple to prepare, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it a great choice for bakers of all levels.

how to make Gluten-Free Orange Almond Cake

Ingredients:

4 large eggs, divided
3/4 cup (150 gr) sugar
1 large orange, zest and juice (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable or extra virgin olive oil
1/8 teaspoon almond extract (or orange extract), optional
3 cups (300 gr) almond flour
1/2 tablespoon baking powder
Sliced almonds and powdered sugar for serving

Directions:

Line or grease an 8 or 9-inch round springform pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a large bowl, add the sugar and the egg yolks. Beat until light and foamy.
Add the orange zest, orange juice, oil, and almond extract. Beat for two more minutes.
Mix in the almond flour and baking powder until combined and smooth.
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until firm. Fold into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, level it out, and sprinkle with almond slices.
Bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden and set.
Let the cake cool, then remove it from the pan and serve with powdered sugar.

how to serve Gluten-Free Orange Almond Cake

Serve the Gluten-Free Orange Almond Cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. You can also add sliced almonds for an extra crunch. This cake is perfect on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent treat.

how to store Gluten-Free Orange Almond Cake

To store the Gluten-Free Orange Almond Cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can store it in the fridge for about a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before serving.

tips to make Gluten-Free Orange Almond Cake

Make sure your almond flour is finely ground for a smoother texture.
For a stronger orange flavor, consider using freshly squeezed juice and zest from two oranges.
Ensure the egg whites are beaten until firm, as this helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
Don’t skip the almond slices on top; they add a wonderful texture and flavor.

variation

For a chocolate twist, you can add unsweetened cocoa powder to the batter. Replace half a cup of almond flour with cocoa powder. You can also add a layer of orange marmalade between the cake layers if you decide to make a two-layer cake.

FAQs

Can I use other types of flour instead of almond flour?

Almond flour is essential for this gluten-free recipe. However, you can try coconut flour, but the texture may differ, and you will need to adjust the liquid ingredients.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake a day or two ahead of time. Just store it properly, and it will taste great when it’s time to serve.

What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?

You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. Just remember that the texture will change slightly.