Ingredients

  • Sugar 1/2 cup (100 grams)
  • Juice from 1 orange
  • Juice from 1/2 lemon
  • Sugar 1 1/3 cups (230 grams)
  • Almond paste 1/2 cup (100 grams)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Unsalted butter 1/3 cup or 2/3 stick (75 grams), plus more for the pan
  • Pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon (4 grams)
  • Eggs 4 (200 grams)
  • Cake flour 2/3 cup (86 grams)
  • Baking powder 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams)
  • Salt to taste
  • Slow-Roasted Fruit
  • Basil Gelato
  • Extra-virgin olive oil

Method

  • In a small microwavable bowl, whisk together the sugar, orange juice, and lemon juice and heat in the microwave for 20 seconds.
  • Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and set it aside.
  • (If the glaze gets too hot, the flavors of the juices change; be careful.)
  • Preheat the oven to 350F.
  • Grease a 12 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2-inch cake pan with butter and set aside.
  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, using the paddle attachment, combine the sugar, almond paste, lemon zest, and orange zest on medium speed.
  • Mix thoroughly, but dont expect the mixture to come together.
  • Add the butter and vanilla and cream together until light and fluffy.
  • Using a rubber spatula, scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  • Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix, incorporating each one fully before adding the next.
  • Into a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Add the flour mixture to the batter and mix until everything is just incorporated; do not overmix.
  • Remove the bowl from the stand mixer and finish mixing with a wooden spoon.
  • Pour the batter into the reserved cake pan.
  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.
  • Run a knife around the edge of the cake and flip it over onto a cooling rack.
  • Place another cooling rack on top.
  • While its still warm, poke holes in the cake using a toothpick and pour the glaze over it through the cooling rack, which will help distribute the glaze evenly.
  • Let the cake cool for at least 1 hour.
  • To serve: Slice the cake into 1/2-inch slices and cook each piece on both sides on a hot grill for 30 seconds.
  • Serve with slow-roasted fruit, a scoop of basil gelato, and a drizzle of olive oil.