Galician Citrus Cake
About Galician Citrus Cake
The Galician Citrus Cake, also known as 'Tarta de Cítricos Gallega', hails from the northwest region of Spain called Galicia. Known for its lush landscapes, vibrant cultural history, and rich culinary traditions, Galicia offers an array of unique dishes, and this citrus-infused cake is a delightful representation of that heritage. Traditionally, this cake is prepared to celebrate the bounty of citrus fruits that thrive in the climate of the region. The contrasting flavors of tartness and sweetness create a perfect dessert that is loved by both locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients
- Flour - 200g
- Sugar - 150g
- Eggs - 3 large
- Butter - 100g, melted
- Baking Powder - 10g
- Salt - a pinch
- Lemon zest - from 2 lemons
- Orange zest - from 1 orange
- Orange juice - 100ml
- Lemon juice - 50ml
- Cinnamon - a pinch (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation
Preparation time for this cake is approximately 20 minutes. Follow these steps for a delightful baking experience:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and dust lightly with flour to prevent the cake from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whip the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Add the melted butter, orange juice, lemon juice, lemon zest, and orange zest to the egg mixture and whisk well.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, taking care not to over-mix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Cooking Process
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be sure to set your cooking timer to keep track of the baking time.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
After the Galician Citrus Cake has cooled, dust it lightly with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. This cake is best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings or a delightful dessert after a hearty meal.
For an enhanced citrus experience, you can serve with a scoop of lemon or orange sorbet. This cake keeps well at room temperature for a couple of days, or it can be stored in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
The refreshing and zesty taste of the Galician Citrus Cake makes it a go-to dessert for any occasion, bringing a slice of Galicia right to your table. Enjoy!