Name: Keto Orange Cake (Almond Flour)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups almond flour ((250g)); 2 unwaxed oranges; 5 medium eggs (or 4 large); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons orange extract; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (or vanilla extract); 6 crushed cardamom pods (seeds only); 16 drops liquid stevia (or to taste); 1 handful flaked almonds (for decoration)

Welcome to a delightful adventure in baking! If you’re on a keto journey or simply looking for a delicious low-carb dessert, this Keto Orange Cake made with almond flour is the perfect treat. It’s light, fragrant, and bursting with citrus flavor, making it an ideal option for any occasion. The use of almond flour not only keeps it low in carbs but also adds a wonderful nutty taste and moist texture. This cake is a wonderful way to enjoy the bright flavors of orange while sticking to your dietary goals.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Keto Orange Cake stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s made with almond flour, which is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. This makes it a fantastic option for those following a ketogenic diet. The use of fresh, unwaxed oranges adds a vibrant flavor without unnecessary sugars, while the addition of cardamom brings a subtle warmth that elevates the cake to a whole new level. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience for your taste buds!

Shopping List

2.5 cups almond flour (250g) – ensures a moist, low-carb base.
2 unwaxed oranges – for zesting and juicing; look for organic if possible.
5 medium eggs (or 4 large) – provides structure and richness.
1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cake rise.
2 teaspoons orange extract – enhances the orange flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (or vanilla extract) – adds depth to the flavor.
Seeds of 6 crushed cardamom pods – for a warm, aromatic note.
16 drops liquid stevia (or to taste) – a low-carb sweetener option.
Handful of flaked almonds – for decoration, adding texture and visual appeal.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Mixer – an electric mixer will make beating the eggs much easier.
Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
Spatula – for folding in your ingredients gently.
Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in baking!
8-inch round cake pan – the perfect size for this delicious cake.
Cooling rack – to let your cake cool evenly.

Build Keto Orange Cake (Almond Flour) Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the kitchen counter. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 8-inch round cake pan with a little coconut oil or butter.

Step 2: Zest and Juice the Oranges

Grate the zest from the two oranges, ensuring you only get the bright orange part of the peel. This zest will add a robust flavor to your cake. After zesting, juice the oranges and set aside the juice for later.

Step 3: Separate the Eggs

Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks. Place the egg whites in a clean bowl and the yolks in another mixing bowl.

Step 4: Beat the Egg Whites

Using your mixer, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step is crucial as it will help create a light and airy texture in your cake.

Step 5: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In the bowl with the egg yolks, add the orange juice, orange zest, orange extract, vanilla bean powder, and liquid stevia. Mix until well combined.

Step 6: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, and crushed cardamom seeds. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the flour.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg yolk mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 8: Fold in Egg Whites

Now, gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter, taking care to maintain the airiness of the mixture. This will ensure your cake is light and fluffy.

Step 9: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool and Decorate

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Once completely cool, decorate the top with flaked almonds for a beautiful finish.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spicy note.
Incorporate fresh blueberries or raspberries for a pop of color and flavor.
Drizzle a sugar-free glaze made with powdered erythritol for an extra touch of sweetness.
Top with whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

For best results, make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
Do not skip the step of beating the egg whites; it significantly contributes to the cake’s texture.
Fresh oranges are preferred to avoid unwanted waxes and chemicals.
Adjust the sweetness according to your taste; everyone’s preference for sweetness can vary.

Storage & Reheat Guide

This Keto Orange Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer to freeze it, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it gently in the oven or microwave.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my Keto Orange Cake dense?

Your cake may be dense if the egg whites were not beaten enough or if they were overmixed when folding them into the batter. Make sure to whip them until stiff peaks form and fold gently to maintain airiness.

Can I substitute almond flour with another type of flour?

Almond flour is integral to this recipe for its low-carb content and texture. Substituting with other flours may not yield the same results, but if necessary, you could experiment with coconut flour, keeping in mind to adjust the liquid content as it absorbs more moisture.

What if I don’t have orange extract?

If you don’t have orange extract, you can increase the amount of orange zest and juice to maintain the citrus flavor. Alternatively, you could use lemon extract for a different yet delightful twist.

How can I make this cake more visually appealing?

Decorate your cake with fresh orange slices, edible flowers, or a light dusting of powdered erythritol. A drizzle of sugar-free glaze or a sprinkle of flaked almonds on top can also make the cake look stunning.

See You at the Table

There you have it! A delectable Keto Orange Cake (Almond Flour) that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a sweet treat for yourself. The combination of almond flour, fresh oranges, and aromatic spices creates a cake that is not only scrumptious but also aligns perfectly with your low-carb lifestyle. We can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Happy baking!