French Orange Cake
A moist, flavorful French orange cake with dates and pecans, combining citrus sweetness with nutty crunch, perfect for dessert or teatime gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the soda with hot water and pour over the chopped dates. Set aside.
- Cream the shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and beat well into the creamed mixture.
- Stir the date mixture into the creamed mixture.
- Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat well after each addition.
- Fold in the grated orange rind and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute. Ensure the dates are finely chopped to blend seamlessly into the batter. Adding a bit of vanilla extract can also enhance the overall taste. This cake keeps well, making it a great option for a dessert to accompany Dutch Cookies Or Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This French Orange Cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it with a side of fresh berries or a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a delightful dessert option for brunch or afternoon gatherings. Explore more vegetarian recipes for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Orange Cake contains roughly 642 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), iron (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 760mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
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 types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor, walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives. Just chop them finely and fold them into the batter as you would the pecans. Each nut will bring a unique taste and texture to the 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. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially baking powder, are gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I add other fruits to the cake?
Yes, you can enhance the cake with other fruits like dried apricots or cranberries. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces similar to the dates. You can also add fresh orange segments for an extra burst of flavor, especially when serving.
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).