Genoese Cake
Genoese Cake is a rich, buttery sponge infused with Mandarin Marmalade and vanilla, perfect for citrus lovers and suitable for special occasions or teatime indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pan, preferably copper, mix sugar, eggs, salt, and vanilla bean.
- Over very low heat, gently beat the ingredients with a whisk.
- This process can be done in a double boiler.
- When the mixture begins to foam and rise well up in the pan, remove from heat and continue whisking until the mixture is cold.
- Remove vanilla bean.
- Continue beating, gradually adding sifted cake flour, then whisk in softened butter.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a smooth blend with the sugar. If you don't have Mandarin Marmalade, orange marmalade or apricot preserves can serve as a good substitute. Be patient while whisking over low heat; this helps create a light, airy batter. For added flavor, consider infusing the butter with zest from the mandarin before mixing it in.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Genoese cake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Meatless Vegetable All Italian Soup or Zucchini Rapiene for a complete meal. Dust with powdered sugar for a simple presentation, or drizzle with additional Mandarin Marmalade for extra sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Genoese cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it gently in the microwave for a few seconds or in a low oven to maintain its moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Genoese Cake contains roughly 1763 calories, with 29g protein, 326g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (123% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and protein (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2399mg per serving (104% 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 a different type of marmalade?
Yes, you can substitute the Mandarin Marmalade with other fruit marmalades like orange or apricot. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly, but it will still yield a delicious cake.
What type of flour is best for this cake?
Use cake flour for the best texture, as it has a lower protein content, resulting in a lighter cake. If cake flour isn't available, you can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with cornstarch to achieve a similar effect.
Can I freeze the Genoese cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before 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).