Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

olivia

Published:

December 14, 2025

Sicilian Whole Orange Cake decorated with fresh oranges and a dusting of powdered sugar

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introduction

This cake uses whole oranges. It feels bright and soft. It uses few things and works for any day. If you like nut cakes, try a simple almond cake next time.

why make this recipe

You make this cake for the fresh orange taste. The peel adds good oil and scent. You make it when you want a light but full flavor treat. It needs small work and gives big joy. If you love orange with chocolate, you may also like a chocolate orange cake idea.

how to make Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

You mix eggs and sugar first. You add the blended whole orange. You fold in dry mix and oil. You bake until a toothpick comes out clean. The cake will stay moist from the orange peel and juice. For a nut twist, look at a almond ricotta cake for ideas on texture and taste.

Ingredients :

2 medium-sized oranges (use organic if you can)
3 large eggs
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free version)
2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ cup vegetable oil (or olive oil for a richer flavor)
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Directions :

Wash the oranges well to remove dirt and wax. Use organic fruit if you will use the peel.
Cut the oranges into quarters. Remove any seeds.
Put the orange quarters (peel, pulp, and all) into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and a bit fluffy.
Add the orange puree in steps and mix well.
Sift the flour and baking powder. Add them slowly to the wet mix. Stir until just mixed.
Add the oil and stir until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan 10 minutes. Then move it to a wire rack to cool all the way.
Dust with powdered sugar if you like. Slice and serve with tea or coffee.

If you want simple bake tips, see the way people make small cakes like apple crisp mini cheesecakes.

how to serve Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Slice the cake thin or thick. Put it on a plate. Dust with powdered sugar. Serve with tea, coffee, or a small spoon of cream. The cake fits a snack or a light dessert.

how to store Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Keep the cake in an airtight box at room heat for 2 days. For more days, put it in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can wrap slices in plastic and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or on the counter.

tips to make Sicilian Whole Orange Cake

Use whole oranges that are fresh and bright.
Do not over mix the flour. Mix until just mixed.
Use a blender that can make a very smooth orange puree.
For a richer taste, use olive oil. For a neutral taste, use vegetable oil.
If you like apple cakes, try the idea from apple crumble coffee cake for mix and bake tips.

variation (if any)

Make it gluten-free: use almond flour for the same cup amounts.
Add a little vanilla or a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm note.
Add a handful of chopped nuts on top before baking for a crunch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular oranges?
A: Yes. Use any sweet orange. For the best peel flavor, pick organic.

Q: Do I need a blender?
A: Yes. You need a blender or food processor to make the orange puree smooth.

Q: Can I make this cake without oil?
A: You need fat in the mix. You can try butter melted, but taste will change.

Q: How do I know when the cake is done?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Q: Can I add sugar glaze?
A: Yes. Mix powdered sugar and a little orange juice. Pour over the cooled cake.

Conclusion

For a full step-by-step look and more notes on using the whole orange, see this Sicilian whole orange cake recipe.