If you’ve been searching for a unique dessert that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion, this naartjie cake recipe is exactly what you need. Naartjies, also known as tangerines to the rest of the world, are a beloved citrus fruit in South Africa. Famous for their bright flavor and juiciness, naartjies form the backbone of this moist and fruity cake.
Whether you call it a tangerine cake or a Naartjie cake, this recipe adds citrusy magic to your table. The best part? It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, even for beginner bakers!
Why a Naartjie dessert?
Naartjies are widely enjoyed in South African households thanks to their sharp sweetness and versatility in both savory and sweet recipes. Incorporating this ingredient into a dessert results in a moist, delicious cake bursting with bright citrus notes.
Now, let’s get baking!
Ingredients
To make this delightfully moist naartjie cake recipe, you’ll need some basic ingredients, most of which are likely already in your pantry.
For the cake:
- 3 large naartjies (tangerines, peeled and deseeded, with pith left on)
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 medium eggs
- ¾ cup (180ml) sunflower or vegetable oil
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
For the glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- Juice of 1 naartjie (or tangerine, depending on your fruit preference)
This combination ensures a perfectly balanced tangerine cake, with just the right level of sweetness and citrusy tang!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Naartjies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and greasing a 9-inch (23cm) round cake tin. If you like, you can line it with baking parchment to make removing the cake easier later on.
For the star ingredient of this naartjie dessert, peel your naartjies and remove any seeds. Be sure to leave the white pith on as it adds to the cake’s lovely zestiness. Place the naartjie segments in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. This puree will infuse the entire cake with a bright, citrusy flavor.
Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients
Next, in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, ensuring your cake will have a light, sponge-like texture.
Slowly add in the oil and naartjie puree while continuing to mix. The oil is what keeps this cake irresistibly moist—don’t skip it!
Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients
Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt into a separate mixing bowl. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care not to overmix. The aim is to maintain a light, airy batter.
Step 4: Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should have a golden-brown top and should feel springy to the touch.
Step 5: Make the glaze
While your cake is baking, make the simple yet mouthwatering glaze. Whisk together the powdered sugar and naartjie juice until smooth. The glaze should have a slightly runny consistency, perfect for drizzling.
Step 6: Assemble and finish
Once your cake has baked and cooled slightly, remove it from the tin and place it on a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, pour the glaze over the top, allowing it to seep into the sponge and enhance the moistness.
For added flair, you can garnish your cake with some zest from a fresh naartjie or tangerine.
Serving ideas
This moist naartjie dessert is perfect as a tea-time treat, a celebration centerpiece, or even an everyday indulgence for citrus lovers. Pair it with a cup of rooibos for a true South African afternoon pick-me-up, or serve it as the sweet end to a meal shared with friends and family.
Naartjie cake tips & tricks
- Substitute other citrus fruits: Can’t find naartjies? Try using clementines or mandarins as an alternative.
- Make it ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day when the glaze has fully infused into the sponge.
- Experiment with spices: A pinch of cinnamon or ginger in the batter can add an extra layer of warmth to this lovely cake.
Why you’ll love this Naartjie dessert
If you’re on the hunt for a standout dessert, this naartjie cake recipe is a must-try. It’s effortlessly delicious, easy to prepare, and perfect for any season. Whether you’re reminiscing about South African flavors or exploring recipes with naartjies for the first time, this tangerine sponge cake guarantees a little slice of heaven.
Experience more than just the Naartjie recipes at FinGlobal
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