Torta Melarancia (Apple and Orange Cake) Recipe – Love With Recipes
Indulge in the delightful fusion of apples and oranges with this Torta Melarancia recipe. Perfect for an afternoon tea or a cozy dessert, this moist and flavorful cake will win hearts with its natural sweetness and refreshing citrus aroma.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Information (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Stayman Apples | 4 | High in fiber, vitamins A and C |
| Orange | 1 | Rich in vitamin C |
| All-Purpose Flour (Farina 00) | 380g | Provides structure, 80 calories per 20g |
| Eggs | 220g | Protein-rich, 70 calories per large egg |
| Granulated Sugar | 200g | Sweetener, 16 calories per teaspoon |
| Greek Yogurt | 90g | High in protein, low in fat |
| Unsalted Butter | 100g | Adds moisture, 102 calories per 10g |
| Baking Powder | 16g | Leavening agent |
| Powdered Sugar | To taste | For garnish |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Butter
- Begin by melting the unsalted butter over very low heat. Allow it to cool to room temperature. This step ensures that the butter integrates seamlessly into the batter for a smooth texture.
2. Slice the Apples
- Wash and dry the Stayman apples thoroughly. Halve them, remove the cores, and set one aside for decoration. Thinly slice the remaining three apples without peeling them to retain their nutrients and vibrant color.
3. Infuse with Orange Zest
- Zest the orange and mix the zest with the sliced apples. This infusion will add a bright citrus flavor to the cake. Cover and set the apples aside to absorb the orange aroma.
4. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
- In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them with an electric whisk. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to whisk until the mixture is pale, fluffy, and creamy.
5. Incorporate the Butter and Yogurt
- Slowly pour the cooled, melted butter into the egg-sugar mixture, blending thoroughly. Follow with the Greek yogurt, ensuring a smooth and uniform consistency.
6. Add the Dry Ingredients
- Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the wet ingredients. Gently fold them in using a spatula to maintain the airy texture of the batter.
7. Fold in the Flavored Apples
- Carefully incorporate the orange-infused apple slices into the batter. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture for bursts of flavor in every bite.
8. Prepare the Cake Pan
- Grease and flour a 20cm (8-inch) round cake pan. Pour the batter into the pan, smoothing the surface with the back of a spoon.
9. Decorate with Apple Slices
- Take the reserved apple, thinly slice it, and arrange the slices in a decorative pattern over the surface of the batter. This step adds a charming visual appeal and enhances the fruity flavor.
10. Sprinkle with Sugar
- Lightly sprinkle granulated sugar over the apple topping. This will create a caramelized finish as the cake bakes.
11. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cake for approximately 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Cool and Garnish
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Torta Melarancia as a dessert for a family dinner, or enjoy it as a snack with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Its light and fruity flavor make it a versatile treat for any occasion.
Tips for Success:
- For an extra hint of spice, add a pinch of cinnamon to the apple and orange zest mixture.
- Ensure the melted butter is fully cooled before adding it to the batter to prevent curdling.
- If you don’t have Stayman apples, substitute them with a tart variety like Granny Smith.
Enjoy baking this flavorful delight with love from Love With Recipes!
