Okay, let's talk about brunch, specifically brunch cake. But not just any brunch cake, a lush, wow-factor, second-breakfast-worthy kind of cake. I’m talking about a cake that is both impressive and achievable, even on a busy Wednesday.
Now, I'm all about real recipes that people will actually make. Not the kind that require hours of meticulous decorating. I have a deep appreciation for beautiful food, but I have somewhere between 0 and -100% interest in spending hours decorating. I want to get to the eating part already!
The Secret to Simple Elegance
This might look like a cake that took years to perfect, but here's the truth: it takes about ONE HOUR. It's as simple as making quick bread, just with a bit of extra magic.
I experimented with a bunch of fussy techniques, but got frustrated with the time and tediousness of them all. So, I landed on something that is simple, stunning, and easy, and it completely elevates the brunch game!
What Makes This Cake So Special?
- The Cake: The cake itself is made with olive oil and a whole orange. It is so moist and delicious!
- The Toppings: The cake is topped with real whipped cream, fresh blueberries, crunchy pistachios, and a drizzle of agave.
The beauty of the whipped cream layer is that you just dollop it on in big swathes and give it a swirl. The toppings add color and texture magic on their own. When you make this cake I expect pictures!. I need to know that this is indeed a faux fancy cake that people will actually make and adore.
We use Wholesome! Organic Blue Agave, not just because it's practical and accessible but also because it's non-GMO and fair trade.
The Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 oranges, peeled
- 1/4 cup agave
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Whipped Cream and Toppings:
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup agave
- Blueberries, pistachios, and additional agave for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Line two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans.
- Place the oranges and agave in a food processor until a pulpy juice forms.
- Whisk the sugar, eggs, and olive oil, then add in the orange mixture. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and mix until just combined. Transfer to the cake pans and bake for 35-45 minutes.
- Beat the heavy whipping cream until light and fluffy and then fold in the agave. Spread whipped cream on top of the first cake, staying close to the center. Then place the second cake on top and add another layer of whipped cream. Cover with blueberries, pistachios, and agave.
Notes
I also like to take the juice of a few oranges and simmer it down into a thick syrup with a bit of agave. Then poke holes in the finished cakes and pour the syrup over them for extra moisture. This cake is best refrigerated! Especially with the extra orange syrup.
So, there you have it! A show-stopping brunch cake that is both simple and delicious. Get ready to impress your friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen. Don't forget to share your creations and let me know what you think!
This recipe is part of our collection of easy brunch recipes. Check it out!