Orange-Polenta Cake

Bychefpatty

The Perfect Orange Polenta Cake: A Moist and Citrusy Delight

If you’re craving a cake that’s not only delicious but also a little different, an orange polenta cake is a perfect choice. This gluten-free treat combines the bright, tangy flavor of oranges with the delightful texture of polenta (cornmeal), creating a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special celebration, an afternoon tea, or just as a cozy dessert at home, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Orange Polenta Cake

Orange polenta cake is a unique spin on traditional cakes. Here’s why it’s so special:

  • Gluten-Free: Made with cornmeal instead of flour, making it perfect for those avoiding gluten.

  • Moist and Flavorful: The polenta gives the cake a wonderfully moist texture, while the orange zest and juice infuse it with bright, citrusy flavors.

  • Easy to Make: This cake requires minimal ingredients and effort but still delivers a sophisticated, delicious dessert.

  • Versatile: Serve it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of syrup for a stunning presentation.

Tips for Making the Best Orange Polenta Cake:

  • For Extra Citrus Flavor: Add a tablespoon of orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier) to the batter for a more intense orange flavor.

  • Use Fresh Oranges: Fresh orange zest and juice will give you the brightest, most flavorful results. Avoid using bottled juice.

  • Moisture: If you want a slightly more moist cake, consider adding a couple of tablespoons of yogurt or sour cream to the batter.

  • Serving Ideas: Pair this cake with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a handful of fresh berries for an extra indulgence.

Why This Cake Is Perfect for Every Occasion

This orange polenta cake is ideal for a variety of occasions:

  • Afternoon Tea: Its light texture and citrus flavor make it a great addition to an afternoon tea spread.

  • Special Occasions: Serve it as a delightful birthday cake or for a holiday gathering like Easter or Thanksgiving. It’s even perfect for Mother’s Day.

  • Gluten-Free Dessert: Since this cake is made with polenta and almond flour, it’s a fantastic dessert option for gluten-free diets.

Orange polenta cake is the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. The citrusy punch from the fresh oranges, paired with the texture of the polenta, makes this cake a unique and delightful treat. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a dinner party, this cake will surely be a crowd pleaser.

Give this recipe a try and let me know @TheMadtable how it turns out!

Orange-Polenta Cake

Print Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • Orange Syrup:
  • 1 fresh orange (about ½ cup), juiced
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • Polenta Cake:
  • butter for pan
  • all-purpose flour for dusting
  • 1 cup ground almonds
  • ¾ cup fine cornmeal
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup butter softened, plus more for pan
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs room temperature
  • 1 fresh orange zested and juiced (zest first and reserve ½ cup of juice for the syrup)
  • Whipped Yogurt:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt

Instructions
 

  • Orange Syrup:
  • In a medium saucepan, bring the juice and sugar to a boil. Whisk until sugar is fully dissolved; simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool
  • Polenta Cake:
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter and flour a round 9-inch non-stick cake pan.
  • In a large bowl, combine ground almonds, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together for 3-4 minutes, until light, and fluffy. Add the dry ingredients to the butter/sugar mixture, alternate with one egg at a time; mix thoroughly. Gently fold in the orange zest.
  • Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, spread evenly. Bake until a knife or cake tester comes out clean, 40-45 minutes. Brush with the syrup and let the cake cool for 20-30 minutes before serving.
  • Lightly dust the cake with powdered sugar and serve with whipped yogurt. Enjoy!
  • Whipped Yogurt:
  • Place bowl, whisk and cream in the freezer for 5-10 minutes.
  • Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until medium peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Add the Greek yogurt, and whip for 1 minute until light and fluffy.
Keyword Almond Flour Cake, Citrus Cake, Easy Cake Recipe, Gluten-Free Cake, Gluten-Free Dessert, Healthy Cake, Moist Cake, Orange Desserts, Orange Polenta Cake, Polenta and Orange, Polenta Cake Recipe,

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