Orange Cake with Honey and Coconut Flakes

Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix wet ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and pinch of salt until frothy. Add the sugar gradually, whisking until the mixture is pale and creamy.
Add the vegetable oil and orange juice, and whisk until combined.
Add the grated orange zest and mix well.
Add dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and decorate:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, drizzle with honey and sprinkle generously with coconut flakes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Top with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Garnish with fresh orange segments for an extra citrusy touch.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a touch of indulgence.
Cooking Tips:
Use fresh orange juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances the flavor and makes the cake taste more vibrant.
Don’t overmix: When adding the flour mixture, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar to 150 grams (3/4 cup).
Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool before drizzling with honey and adding coconut flakes to prevent them from melting or sinking.
Nutritional Benefits:
Rich in vitamin C from the orange juice and zest, which supports immune health.
Healthy fats from vegetable oil, contributing to satiety.
Source of energy from the sugar and carbohydrates, perfect for a pick-me-up.
Coconut flakes add a dose of healthy fats and texture.
No artificial flavors, just natural orange zest for a fresh taste.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
Dairy-free since there is no milk or butter used.
Nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Adjustable sweetness with the honey drizzle to suit your taste.
Easily customizable by adding extra flavors like vanilla or almond extract.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
Calories: 220
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 20g
Storage:
Room temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate: For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Bright citrus flavor: The combination of orange juice and zest makes the cake fresh and flavorful.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
Perfect balance of sweetness: The honey drizzle adds just enough sweetness without being overwhelming.
Light and fluffy texture: The cake is soft and airy, perfect for any time of day.
Versatile: Enjoy as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast with a cup of coffee.
Conclusion:
This Orange Cake with Honey and Coconut Flakes is a bright and delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The fresh orange flavor combined with the sweetness of honey and the texture of coconut flakes makes this cake truly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a special event or just enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, it’s sure to be a hit!

Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use canola oil or sunflower oil instead of vegetable oil.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How can I make the cake more moist?
Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt or sour cream to the batter for extra moisture.
Can I skip the coconut flakes?
Yes, the coconut flakes are optional. You can also replace them with chopped nuts if preferred.
Can I use bottled orange juice?
Freshly squeezed juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.