Pan d'arancio

The “Pan d’Arancio” is a soft and fragrant dessert typical of Sicilian cuisine, which features the orange as its star ingredient. It’s a delicious way to use this citrus fruit, transforming it into a moist and aromatic cake. Here’s a classic recipe:

Ingredients

• Oranges (organic, if possible, since the zest will be used) - 3 medium
• Flour - 300g
• Sugar - 300g
• Eggs - 3
• Baking powder - 1 sachet
• Melted butter - 100g or vegetable oil
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
2. Wash the oranges well and grate the zest of 2 oranges, being careful not to grate the white part, which is bitter.
3. Squeeze the juice of all 3 oranges and strain it to remove the seeds.
4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until you get a light and fluffy mixture.
5. Incorporate the melted butter or vegetable oil into the egg and sugar mixture.
6. Add the orange juice and grated zest.
7. Add the sifted flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, mixing well until you have a smooth batter.
8. Pour the batter into a buttered and floured mold or lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool in the mold before unmolding it onto a rack.

Curiosity

The name “Pan d’Arancio” reflects the softness of this cake that resembles “bread”, and the generous use of oranges gives it a fresh taste and a distinctive scent. In some variations of the recipe, you can also add an orange glaze on top of the cake for an extra touch of flavor and for a more inviting presentation.

Have fun in the kitchen and enjoy your meal!