Mandarin orange cake

Mandarin Orange Cake Recipe from Guinea | Ingredients: Eggs, Mandarin Oranges, Sugar, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt, Brown Sugar, Milk, Butter

Region / culture: Guinea | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Mandarin orange cake is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet mandarin oranges and moist cake creates a delightful treat that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

The origins of Mandarin orange cake are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the southern United States. The use of mandarin oranges in baking became popular in the early 20th century, and this cake quickly became a favorite among dessert lovers.

Ingredients

2 eggs
6 fresh mandarins, peeled and sectioned (or 2 cans of mandarin oranges, drained)
2 cups of sugar
2 cups of flour
2 tsp of baking soda
0.5 tsp of salt
0.75 cup of brown sugar
3 tbsp of milk
2 tbsp of butter

How to prepare

In a bowl, beat the eggs and add the mandarins.
In a separate bowl, sift together the sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt. Then, add this mixture to the first bowl. Beat for 4 minutes.
Grease and flour a pan, then pour the batter into it.
Preheat the oven and bake the cake for 30 to 35 minutes. If the oranges are too juicy, it may take longer. Test with a toothpick to check for doneness.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, bring the brown sugar, milk, and butter to a boil.
Once the cake is done, immediately pour the hot sugar mixture over it.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm and spicy flavor.
Top the cake with toasted coconut or chopped nuts for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to beat the eggs and mandarins well to ensure a light and fluffy texture in the cake.

- If using fresh mandarins, make sure to remove any seeds before adding them to the batter.

- To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, be sure to grease and flour it thoroughly before pouring in the batter.

- Test the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mandarin orange cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to beat the eggs and mandarins well to incorporate air into the batter for a light and fluffy cake.

- Sifting the dry ingredients together helps to ensure a smooth and even texture in the cake.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have mandarin oranges, you can use canned pineapple or peaches as a substitute.

- You can use white sugar instead of brown sugar in the topping for a slightly different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Mandarin orange cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mandarin orange cake on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mandarin orange cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mandarin orange cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mandarin orange cake contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mandarin orange cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mandarin orange cake contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Mandarin orange cake contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mandarin oranges are a good source of vitamin C, providing a boost to your immune system.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Mandarin orange cake is a sweet and satisfying dessert that is relatively low in calories and fat. It provides a good source of carbohydrates and a small amount of protein.

Summary

Mandarin orange cake is a delightful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and tangy flavor, moist texture, and refreshing citrus notes, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished picking ripe mandarin oranges from the tree in our backyard. As I sat down at the kitchen table to peel the juicy fruit, I couldn't help but think about what delicious treat I could make with them.

I had always loved baking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own grandmother in the kitchen. She was a master at creating mouthwatering desserts that would make anyone's mouth water. I remember her teaching me how to make my first cake, a simple vanilla sponge that turned out surprisingly well. From that moment on, I was hooked.

As I peeled the oranges, the sweet citrus scent filled the air, and I knew that I had to make something special with them. I rummaged through my collection of old recipe books, searching for inspiration. That's when I stumbled upon a worn, stained page that caught my eye. It was a recipe for Mandarin Orange Cake, written in elegant cursive handwriting.

The recipe called for simple ingredients: flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and of course, fresh mandarin oranges. The method was straightforward, and the directions were clear. I knew that this was the perfect recipe to showcase the bright, tangy flavor of the oranges.

I gathered all the ingredients and started baking. The kitchen was filled with the comforting sounds of the mixer whirring and the oven preheating. As I mixed the batter, the aroma of the oranges intensified, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished product.

When the cake came out of the oven, it was a beautiful golden hue, speckled with bits of orange zest. I let it cool before slicing into it, savoring the anticipation. The first bite was pure bliss - the cake was moist and tender, with bursts of citrusy flavor in every bite.

I knew that I had stumbled upon a gem of a recipe, one that would become a staple in my repertoire. Over the years, I made countless Mandarin Orange Cakes for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

As I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had taken a simple, humble fruit and transformed it into something truly extraordinary. The Mandarin Orange Cake became my signature dessert, a symbol of my love for baking and my passion for creating delicious treats for those I care about.

In a way, this recipe became a part of me, a reflection of my journey as a home cook and a testament to the joy that cooking and baking bring to my life. Whenever I make Mandarin Orange Cake, I am reminded of that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe and the magic of turning simple ingredients into something truly special.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will carry on the tradition and make it your own. Add your own twist, experiment with different flavors, and most importantly, share it with those you love. For in the act of sharing food and creating memories, we forge lasting connections and nourish not just our bodies, but also our souls.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the sweet aroma of Mandarin Orange Cake fill your kitchen. And as you take that first bite, may it bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years. Happy baking, my dear. Enjoy every moment, for in the kitchen, magic truly happens.