Levantine Orange Blossom Cake

Ingredients

The Levantine Orange Blossom Cake takes inspiration from the traditional Madeira cake of Portuguese cuisine but incorporates Levantine flavors and ingredients. While the original Madeira cake is typically flavored with lemon zest and vanilla, the Levantine version infuses the cake with the delicate aroma of orange blossom water and adds warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom for a Middle Eastern twist. This adaptation brings a unique and exotic flavor profile to the classic Madeira cake, making it a delightful treat with a Levantine flair. We alse have the original recipe for Madeira Cake, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed orange juice 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 tablespoons orange zest 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 11g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 51g, 34g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. Set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. 5.
   Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and orange blossom water until well combined.
6. 6.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. 7.
   Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. 8.
   Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. 9.
   Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. 10.
    Once cooled, dust the cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with an orange glaze, if desired.
11. 11.
    Slice and serve the Levantine Orange Blossom Cake as a delightful dessert or teatime treat.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange zest — Make sure to use organic oranges and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.
• Orange blossom water — Use a high-quality orange blossom water to ensure a strong and authentic flavor in the cake.
• Ground cinnamon and cardamom — For the best flavor, use freshly ground spices or whole spices that you grind yourself.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of citrus flavor, add a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the batter.
• If you prefer a more pronounced spice flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon and cardamom to your liking.
• To make the cake even more moist, brush the top with a simple syrup made from equal parts orange juice and sugar while it's still warm.
• Serve the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Levantine Orange Blossom Cake as a delightful dessert or enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful teatime treat. Slice the cake into wedges and serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. For an elegant presentation, garnish each slice with a sprig of fresh mint or a twist of orange zest.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Levantine Orange Blossom Cake, you can place a few edible flowers, such as orange blossoms or pansies, on top of the cake. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some crushed pistachios or slivered almonds over the cake for a touch of texture and visual appeal.