Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dessert game! This Burnt Orange Meringue Cake is not just another ordinary dessert – it's a symphony of flavors that combines the zesty brightness of fresh oranges with a cloud-like meringue topping that's dramatically caramelized to perfection. Imagine cutting into a tender, citrus-infused cake crowned with a golden, slightly burnt meringue that creates an irresistible contrast of textures and tastes. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a spectacular homemade dessert, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 large oranges
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup sugar (for meringue)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Zest and juice two oranges. Slice the third orange into thin rounds for garnish.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add whole eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in orange zest and 1/4 cup of orange juice.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the meringue. In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar, continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Once the cake has cooled slightly, spread the meringue over the top, creating decorative peaks.
- Use a kitchen torch to carefully brown the meringue until golden and slightly burnt at the edges. Alternatively, place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish with reserved orange slices and additional orange zest if desired.
- Allow cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. Best enjoyed the same day.
Tips
- Citrus Selection: Choose ripe, juicy oranges for the most vibrant flavor. Look for oranges that feel heavy for their size and have a bright, glossy skin.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
- Meringue Magic: When beating egg whites, make sure your bowl and whisk are completely clean and free from any oil or grease to achieve perfect peaks.
- Torch Technique: If using a kitchen torch, move it constantly to avoid burning the meringue. Keep it at a consistent distance for even browning.
- Broiler Alternative: If using the broiler, place the cake on the top rack and watch it like a hawk – meringue can go from golden to burnt in seconds!
- Make Ahead: While best enjoyed the same day, you can prepare the cake base in advance and add the meringue just before serving.
- Serving Tip: For the most beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh orange zest and thin orange slices just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
