Orange Caramel Layer Cake

This delightful and visually stunning Citrus Caramel Cake is a true showstopper for any occasion. With its perfect blend of citrus flavors and warm caramel undertones, this cake is a wonderful treat year-round. Whether you’re celebrating a special garden wedding or simply want to impress your guests with a mouthwatering dessert, this cake is sure to please.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Cake:

• ⅔ cup milk (1 or 2 percent or whole)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons orange extract
• 2⅔ cups (239 grams) cake flour
• 1½ teaspoon (6 grams) baking powder
• ½ teaspoon (2.5 grams) salt
• 6 large eggs
• ⅔ cup (127 grams) sugar
• Juice of one orange (about ⅓ cup)

For the Caramel:

• 1 cup (192 grams) granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• 1¼ cup orange juice
• Zest of one orange, about 1 tablespoon
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

For the Icing:

• Cream cheese icing (prepared separately)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare three 6-inch or two 8-inch cake pans by brushing them with shortening or softened butter. Dust with flour, and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a mixer bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Mix in the baking powder and salt. Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl as needed. Gradually add the flour, alternating with milk and orange juice. Mix until smooth.
3. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool on a wire rack.
4. Make the Caramel: In a saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat until the mixture turns a deep amber color. In another pan, heat the orange juice and zest to a simmer. Carefully pour the orange juice into the caramel, stirring to dissolve any pieces. Simmer for a few minutes to reduce. Strain into a heat-proof bowl and cool. Reserve ½ cup for later use.
5. Prepare the Icing Caramel: Return the reserved caramel syrup to the saucepan. Add cornstarch, whisk, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, cool slightly, and stir in softened butter. Let it cool until thickened.
6. Assemble the Cake: Turn the cake pans upside down to release the cakes. Place the first cake layer bottom-side up on a cake board. Brush generously with the reserved imbibing syrup. Spread a layer of cream cheese icing over the cake.
7. Layer and Ice: Add the next cake layer and repeat the process, imbibing with syrup and icing. Continue with the final layer. Spread the remaining icing over the top of the cake, creating pretty peaks.
8. Chill and Garnish: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Before serving, garnish with fresh fruits or food-safe fresh flowers to add a touch of elegance to your masterpiece.

TIPS:

• Precise Measurements: Baking requires accuracy, so make sure to measure your ingredients precisely, especially when preparing the cake batter and caramel. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: To achieve a smooth and light cake batter, ensure that the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting the recipe. Cold ingredients can lead to an uneven texture.
• Patience with Caramel: When making the caramel, resist the temptation to stir the sugar and water mixture. Let it cook undisturbed until it reaches a deep amber color. Stirring may cause the caramel to crystallize, resulting in an undesirable texture.
• Careful Handling of Caramel: When adding the orange juice to the caramel, be cautious as it will bubble and boil vigorously. Take your time and stir carefully to avoid any splattering.
• Proper Cooling: Allow the cakes and caramel to cool thoroughly before assembling. This will ensure that the cake layers set properly and the caramel thickens to the right consistency for icing.
• Imbibing Syrup: The reserved caramel syrup acts as an imbibing syrup, infusing the cake layers with additional flavor and moisture. Ensure that you brush the layers generously to enhance the overall taste.
• Chilling Time: For the best results, chill the fully assembled cake for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the icing to set, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious cake.

Enjoy this Citrus Caramel Cake, an exquisite dessert that brings together the refreshing taste of citrus and the rich warmth of caramel for a truly unforgettable treat!