Simple Orange Cake (Haitian Gateau a L’orange)

The winter blues got you down? Craving a taste of the tropics? Look no further than the Simple Orange Cake, also known as Gateau a L’orange in Haiti. This delightful dessert is anything but plain. Bursting with sunshine-y citrus flavor, it’s the perfect pick-me-up to brighten your day.

More than just a cake; it’s a cultural connection. This recipe is a staple in Haitian households, passed down through generations. Each bite carries a hint of tradition and the warmth of loved ones gathering around the table.

Simple doesn’t mean basic. Don’t be fooled by the name. This cake packs a flavor punch! Fresh orange zest and juice infuse the batter, while a touch of rum (optional) adds depth and complexity. The result? A moist, fluffy cake with a vibrant orange aroma that will tantalize your taste buds.

Easy as 1, 2, 3 (oranges)! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With readily available ingredients and minimal steps, even novice bakers can whip up this crowd-pleaser.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pantry staples: Flour, sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, salt, vanilla extract
• The star ingredient: Fresh oranges (zest and juice)
• A touch of Haiti (optional): Rum (dark or light)

Ready to bake?

1. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air, making the cake airy and tender.
2. Whisk in the eggs one at a time. Each addition should be fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. Zest and juice your oranges. Don’t forget the zest! It packs a concentrated punch of flavor.
4. Combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt). Gradually add them to the wet ingredients, alternating with the orange juice.
5. Optional rum step: For an extra kick, fold in a splash of rum.
6. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!

Tips for a perfect Gateau a L’orange:

• Use ripe oranges for the juiciest and most flavorful cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are okay!
• Let the cake cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent it from dissolving.
• Get creative! Top your cake with fresh orange slices, whipped cream, or a simple glaze.

A note on ingredients: While this recipe is indeed “simple,” the quality of the ingredients can significantly impact the final outcome. While not every brand is created equal, using high-quality ingredients can elevate the flavor and texture of your cake. For this citrusy masterpiece, consider:

• Flour: Opt for a cake flour or pastry flour for a lighter and more tender crumb.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for optimal control over flavor and avoid artificial butter substitutes.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness and structure, but consider adding a touch of brown sugar for depth and caramel notes.
• Oranges: Choose juicy, thin-skinned oranges for the best zest and juice yield.
• Rum (optional): A high-quality rum like Barbancourt adds a distinct complexity, but feel free to omit it for an alcohol-free version.

Remember, baking is an art form, and experimentation is encouraged! Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to your taste and preferences. And most importantly, have fun while baking!

Bonus tip: Add a drizzle of orange glaze or a sprinkle of candied orange peel for an extra burst of orange flavor and visual appeal.

This Simple Orange Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s a taste of Haitian sunshine, a connection to a vibrant culture, and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things in life are the most delicious. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients (the good stuff!), and bake a little bit of joy into your day. You won’t regret it!

Additional Tips for Baking the Perfect Orange Cake:

Ingredient Quality Matters:

• Unsalted butter: Skip the budget brands and opt for a high-quality, unsalted butter. The richer flavor and creamier texture will elevate your cake.
• Eggs: Fresh, large eggs are essential for optimal rise and structure.
• Sugar: While organic sugar isn’t necessary, using a quality sugar you enjoy can subtly enhance the flavor.
• Flour: Sifting King Arthur flour adds air and ensures a smooth, light crumb.
• Baking powder: No specific brand preference here, just ensure it’s fresh and active.
• Orange peel: Thick-skinned oranges are ideal for grating. Use a microplane grater for more finely textured zest.
• Orange juice: Freshly squeezed juice offers unmatched flavor and health benefits.
• Vanilla extract: Homemade extract adds a unique touch, but good quality store-bought extract works too.
• Rum (optional): Rum Barbancourt adds a distinct Haitian flair, but any high-quality, light rum will do. Feel free to omit it for an alcohol-free cake.

Beyond the Ingredients:

• Zest before juicing: This ensures you capture the flavorful oils from the orange peel.
• Don’t overmix: A few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
• Cool completely before dusting: Powdered sugar dissolves on a warm cake, so wait for it to cool first.
• Get creative: Top your cake with fresh orange slices, whipped cream, or a simple glaze for added flair.

By following these tips and choosing quality ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to baking a delicious and impressive Orange Cake!

A touch of Haitian sunshine in every bite: Rum in Gateau a L’orange

Haitians hold a special place in their hearts for Rhum Barbancourt, a smooth, aged rum with a rich history. It’s more than just a spirit; it’s a cultural touchstone, woven into celebrations, traditions, and even their beloved desserts.

In this Simple Orange Cake, a splash of Barbancourt isn’t just an optional ingredient; it’s an invitation to experience a taste of Haiti. It elevates the orange flavor, adding depth and complexity that takes the cake beyond the ordinary.

Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Is rum necessary?” While the cake is delicious without it, adding Barbancourt opens a door to a deeper appreciation of Haitian flavors. It’s like adding a sprinkle of sunshine to your batter, a subtle warmth that complements the citrusy notes beautifully.

But don’t just take my word for it. Even renowned chefs around the world recognize the magic of Barbancourt. They incorporate it into their creations, knowing it adds a unique touch that elevates their dishes.

So, if you’re looking for more than just a cake, consider adding a drizzle of Barbancourt to your Gateau a L’orange. It’s an opportunity to connect with Haitian culture, experience a new flavor dimension, and create a truly special dessert. Remember, baking is about exploration and joy, and sometimes, a little bit of rum can go a long way!

P.S. Don’t worry if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. The cake is still delicious without the rum, and you can enjoy the vibrant orange flavor just the same.

Simple Orange Cake (Haitian Gateau a L’orange)

A simple and delicious Orange Cake bursting with flavors from fresh orange, Haitian Rum and Homemade Vanilla Extract.

5 from 6 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Caribbean

Servings 8

Calories 240 kcal

Equipment

• Stand-up Mixer
• Spatula
• Cake pan
• Flour Sifter

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 stick unsalted butter
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 3/4 cup sifted flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
• ¾ cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon rum

Shop Ingredients on Jupiter

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a mixer bowl, whip the butter and sugar to a cream.
• Add the eggs one at a time and missing well after each addition. Add the orange zest, then the sifted flour with the baking powder alternating with the orange juice. Add the vanilla extract and the rum. Mix well and on high speed for about 1 minute.
• Pour the cake batter into a buttered and floured 10 inch pan or 10 inch tin tube. Bake in the oven for 40 minutes or when a cake tester or a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
• Remove the cake from the oven, and let cool covered with a kitchen towel. Remove from pan, dust with powdered sugar and serve.

Notes

Use Rum Barbancourt, homemade vanilla extract and organic sugar preferably.

Nutrition

Calories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 5gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 62mgSodium: 25mgPotassium: 202mgFiber: 1gSugar: 27gVitamin A: 145IUVitamin C: 13mgCalcium: 61mgIron: 2mg

Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.

Keyword cake desserts, cake recipes, easy cake, orange cake

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Tried this recipe?Mention @noubesscaribbean or tag #noubesscaribbean!

Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.

Time to stock up your Pantry! Shop Noubess.comCheck out Noubess Shop!

Corn Allergy:

Always choose ingredients without corn or corn derivatives.

Originally published on September 2, 2014. Revised and updated with additional tips.