Description
This Flourless Orange Cake is arguably the best gluten-free cake you will ever taste. Unlike dry gluten-free baked goods, this cake uses whole boiled oranges (rind and all) and almond flour to create a dessert that is incredibly moist, dense, and bursting with aromatic citrus flavor. It’s naturally dairy-free and only gets better the next day.
Ingredients
— Main Ingredients —
2 large oranges (approx. 400g total), washed
6 large eggs, room temperature
2 ½ cups (250g) almond flour or almond meal
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (or caster sugar)
1 teaspoon baking powder (ensure gluten-free)
— Optional Toppings —
Powdered sugar for dusting
Flaked almonds
Candied orange peel
Instructions
1. Boil the Oranges: Place the whole, unpeeled oranges in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour to 1.5 hours until they are very soft. Drain and let them cool completely. (This removes the bitterness from the pith).
2. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
3. Process Oranges: Once cooled, cut the oranges into quarters and remove any seeds. Place the chunks (peel included) into a food processor and blend until you have a smooth, thick orange puree.
4. Mix Batter: In a large bowl (or in the processor with the orange pulp), add the eggs and sugar. Pulse or whisk until well combined. Add the almond flour and baking powder. Mix until you have a uniform batter.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Bake for 45–60 minutes. Check at 45 minutes; if the top is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil. The cake is done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out generally clean (it will still be moist).
6. Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the tin. It is very fragile while hot. Once cool, remove the sides of the springform pan.
7. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar or top with flaked almonds before serving.
Notes
The Oranges: Any thin-skinned variety (like Navel or Valencia) works well. The boiling process is non-negotiable as it softens the rind and removes bitterness.
Almond Flour vs Meal: Almond flour (blanched) gives a lighter color, while almond meal (skins on) gives a rustic look. Both work perfectly.
Make Ahead: This cake is actually better on day 2 or 3 as the almond oils and orange juices meld together. Keep it stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Freezing: This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 65
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 29
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 9
- Cholesterol: 110
