Nigella Lawson’s Flourless Chocolate Orange Cake is a rich, moist dessert that combines the deep flavors of chocolate with the zesty brightness of whole oranges.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients:

• 2 small thin-skinned oranges (approximately 375g total weight)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 heaped teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
• 200g ground almonds
• 250g caster sugar
• 50g cocoa powder
• Orange peel, for decoration (optional)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Oranges: Place the whole oranges in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 2 hours or until soft. Drain and let them cool.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter and line a 20cm (8-inch) springform tin.
3. Process the Oranges: Once cooled, cut the oranges in half and remove any seeds. Then, pulp everything—peel, pith, and all—in a food processor.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the eggs, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, ground almonds, sugar, and cocoa to the processor. Blend until you achieve a cohesive batter.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for approximately 45 minutes to an hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to burn, cover it with foil.
6. Cool and Decorate: Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the tin on a cooling rack. Once cooled, remove from the tin and decorate with orange peel if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 391 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 176mg
• Potassium: 398mg
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 36g
• Vitamin A: 283 IU
• Vitamin C: 19mg
• Calcium: 106mg
• Iron: 3mg

The Appeal of Flourless Cakes

Flourless cakes have gained immense popularity over the years, particularly among those following gluten-free diets. By omitting flour and using alternative ingredients such as ground almonds, these cakes maintain a rich texture without compromising on taste. The lack of flour also results in a denser, more moist crumb, which many people find more satisfying than traditional sponge cakes. This flourless chocolate orange cake is an excellent option for those who are gluten-intolerant or simply looking for a different kind of dessert experience. Another reason why flourless cakes are loved is their intense flavor profile. With no flour to dilute the taste, ingredients like chocolate, almonds, and citrus come through more prominently. This particular recipe benefits from the natural sweetness and acidity of oranges, which enhance the deep cocoa notes. The combination of these elements results in a luxurious cake that is both complex and comforting.

The Unique Use of Whole Oranges

One of the standout features of this cake is the use of whole oranges. Unlike most recipes that require zest or juice, this one calls for boiling entire oranges, including their peels. This technique softens the fruit and reduces bitterness, allowing the entire orange to blend smoothly into the batter. The natural oils from the peel contribute a fragrant, slightly floral aroma that pairs beautifully with the cocoa powder. Boiling the oranges not only intensifies their natural sweetness but also makes them easier to incorporate into the cake mixture. This process is reminiscent of traditional European baking techniques, where citrus fruits are often used to add moisture and complexity to desserts. By using whole oranges, the cake benefits from all parts of the fruit, including the fiber from the pith and the essential oils from the zest. The result is a dessert with a well-rounded citrus profile that complements the rich chocolate flavor.

The Role of Ground Almonds

Instead of using flour, this cake relies on ground almonds to provide structure and texture. Ground almonds are a fantastic alternative to wheat flour as they add moisture, a slight nuttiness, and a tender crumb to baked goods. They also contribute to the cake’s dense and fudgy consistency, making it even more indulgent. Ground almonds have been a staple in baking for centuries, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Their natural oil content keeps cakes from drying out, making them an excellent choice for flourless recipes. Additionally, almonds are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, adding a nutritional boost to this already delicious dessert. Their mild flavor allows the chocolate and orange to shine while providing a subtle background note of nuttiness that enhances the overall taste.

The Perfect Balance of Chocolate and Citrus

Chocolate and citrus are a match made in heaven, and this cake exemplifies their perfect harmony. The deep, slightly bitter notes of cocoa powder contrast beautifully with the bright, zesty flavors of the oranges. This balance prevents the cake from becoming overly sweet, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more sophisticated dessert. Citrus fruits have long been used to enhance chocolate desserts, as their acidity helps cut through the richness and add freshness. In this recipe, the natural sugars from the oranges mellow out the intensity of the cocoa, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. The result is a cake that is both comforting and complex, with layers of taste that develop as you eat it.

Versatility and Serving Suggestions

One of the best aspects of this flourless chocolate orange cake is its versatility. It can be served warm or cold, with or without additional toppings. For a more elegant presentation, it can be dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with a chocolate glaze, or served with a dollop of whipped cream. A side of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese also pairs beautifully with this cake, enhancing its rich texture and flavor. This cake is also an excellent choice for different occasions. Whether it’s a casual afternoon treat, a festive holiday dessert, or a special birthday cake, it always makes an impression. Its gluten-free nature also makes it suitable for those with dietary restrictions, allowing more people to enjoy its deliciousness. Another great feature of this cake is its ability to stay moist for several days. Due to the high moisture content from the oranges and almonds, it doesn’t dry out quickly, making it a great make-ahead dessert. In fact, many people find that the flavors deepen and improve over time, making it even more enjoyable the next day.

Conclusion

Nigella Lawson’s Flourless Chocolate Orange Cake is a truly special dessert that stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. By combining the richness of chocolate with the bright, aromatic notes of whole oranges, this cake offers a unique taste experience that is both indulgent and refreshing. Its gluten-free nature makes it accessible to more people, while the use of ground almonds ensures a moist, satisfying texture. This cake is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to try something different from the usual chocolate desserts. It is easy to make, requires only a handful of ingredients, and delivers an impressive result every time.