Bonnie'S Orange Cake
Bonnie's Orange Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert featuring the bright citrus notes of fresh oranges, complemented by sweet dates and crunchy pecans. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this cake offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to citrus lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Strain the juice of 2 oranges and add 1 cup sugar; let stand while preparing the cake.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together sugar and shortening until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in grated orange rind.
- Gradually add sifted flour to the mixture, alternating with the orange juice mixture.
- Gently fold in chopped dates (tossed in a little flour) and chopped pecans.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured cake pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts can be a great alternative. Make sure to sift the flour to avoid clumps and achieve a smoother batter. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the oranges you use; fresh juice can vary in sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This orange cake is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of Peach And Raspberry Ice Cream for a refreshing dessert. Consider serving it alongside a light Cucumber And Chicken Salad for a balanced meal. A cup of tea or coffee also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover orange cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bonnie'S Orange Cake contains roughly 1213 calories, with 17g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of oranges?
Yes, you can substitute oranges with lemons or limes for a citrus twist. Just adjust the sugar according to the tartness of the fruit. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but it can still yield a delicious cake.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to help with the texture. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly depending on the blend used.
What can I do if the cake is too dry?
If the cake turns out dry, try adding a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water boiled until dissolved. Brush it over the cooled cake to add moisture. Alternatively, serve it with a fruit compote or sauce to enhance the overall flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).