Orange Almond Cake

https://www.wholesomebellies.com.au/

When I think of orange and almond cake my mind instantly takes me to a place of complete relaxation. I imagine I’m drinking a cup of herbal tea in a beautiful fine china mug, sitting by a window somewhere overlooking the mountains. As I take a mouthful of moist orange cake and sip on my tea I take a deep breath and feel at complete ease.

It’s amazing how food can totally transport you and bring you complete joy.

I hope this recipe creates a joyful experience for you too.

As an added bonus this one is gluten-free and refined sugar free too. So, enjoy it completely guilt-free.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond meal

• 1 1/2 cups gluten free flour (can substitute for wheat plain flour)

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 tsp bicarb

• ¾ cup coconut sugar

• 1 cup orange juice

• 3/4 cup plant-based milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 2 tablespoons ground flax meal (substitute for 2 eggs)

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• ¼ cup maple

• Grated rind from one orange

• 4 drops of orange essential oils (food-grade and optional)

• ½ cup fresh raspberries

• ½ cup flaked almonds

Method

1. In one bowl place the flour, almond meal, baking powder and bicarb soda an mix well.

2. In another bowl mix together the coconut sugar, orange juice, milk, vanilla, flax meal, olive oil, maple syrup, and essential oils. Mix well.

3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and fold in with a spatula until you form a smooth cake mixture.

4. Place into a 20cm round spring form tin (well oiled).

5. Top with fresh berries and almonds and sprinkle with coconut sugar.

6. Bake for 30 – 40 minutes at 180 degrees. Test cake by poking a skewer or toothpick. If it comes out dry, then the cake is ready.