Orange Nut Ring
A moist orange nut ring bursting with pecans, raisins, and citrus flavors, perfect for brunch or teatime, offering a sweet, nutty, and zesty experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Stir in all but 1/4 cup of the chopped pecans and raisins.
- Add the beaten egg, shortening, grated orange peel, orange juice, vanilla, and milk.
- Mix just until blended.
- Pour the batter into a tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While warm, glaze the cake with a mixture of confectioners' sugar and orange juice or other preferred glaze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. For added zest, try incorporating some lemon peel along with the orange. Make sure to mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense cake. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Orange Nut Ring is perfect for brunch or as a sweet snack. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple glaze or serve alongside a slice of Carrot Cake Cream Cheese Icing for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep the cake moist, you can also wrap it in plastic wrap. If you want to enjoy it later, refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Nut Ring contains roughly 715 calories, with 7g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 979mg per serving (43% 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 make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind the ingredients and maintain moisture in the cake while keeping it suitable for vegetarian recipes.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can replace shortening with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. Both options will work well to maintain the cake's moisture and texture. If using butter, use the same amount as the shortening called for in the recipe.
How can I enhance the orange flavor?
To boost the orange flavor, consider adding a splash of orange extract or using fresh orange juice instead of bottled. You could also increase the amount of grated orange peel for a more vibrant citrus taste. This will make your Orange Nut Ring even more aromatic and delicious.
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).