Sticky Orange Caramel & Chestnut Cake
This sticky orange caramel cake appeared in a dream the other day. That’s not difficult to work out why oranges are on my mind: Antoine had stocked up on two huge bags of beautiful organic oranges destined to squeeze them into juice for breakfasts but somehow they didn’t quite make it into that glass. I think this must be a wee problem I have, as I was instead thinking of more creative ways to use them, even if table oranges are better for baking.
It’s not that I’m not healthy (that is so French, BTW, double negatives tend to stick these days): before I take off on the school run up to the Lycée during the week, I squeeze half a lime, lemon or orange and mix it with warm water from the kettle. It’s supposed to be so good for you, and I can feel that my body likes it.
Over the winter months, I dream of teatime at breakfast… with warm caramel and a hint of French chestnut paste just to add a bit of French intrigue.
The extra half orange used as sliced on top of the cake are not just for decoration but gives it a sharp kick to the cake, which balances well with the orange caramel. Naturally, if you have a couple of better quality oranges than I used here, you’ll enjoy it even better!
What other ingredient can i use intead the chestnut paste in the recipe.
Hi Enrique,
I didn’t mention any substitute here since really the cake won’t be the same without it. If, however, you really can’t find it then you could use speculoos spread (biscoff) or half quantity of marmalade.
Hi the chestnut is similar a marrón glasés (castaña)
It’s funny, Jill, but my comment is almost the opposite of Christina’s! Well this cake is very similar to when her mother made, I have never seen anything like it! I’m wondering if I can get that chestnut paste here in the states… Probably on Amazon.com!
Thanks so much, David. Yes, you can find chestnut paste easily on Amazon (Clement Faugier).
You can buy it at World Market or get it from King Arthur Flour too. I usually get mine from World Market or Home Goods. In case you live near either one of those stores. Hope this helps David!
thanks for helping out on the other side of the pond for me, Bea!
I had to make this for my Sister’s birthday and not only was it beautiful but so delicious! She wanted to make sure I thanked you for the recipe. She hates cooking or baking. Her birthday was Jan.22! What a coincidence, right? Thank you she sure enjoyed your cake.
Absolutely thrilled to hear you loved it, Bea, and happy belated birthday to your sister. Thanks so much for popping in and sharing this. Enjoy your weekend!
A kid’s dessert for adults! (Pornfood)
This is similar to a citrus cake my mum made just before I left, and it was wonderful!!! I love drizzle cakes here in the UK, too, so l’d love your orange caramel cake!!! Yum!!
You know – I’ve not made a drizzle cake in a long time. Your Mum’s lemon cake must have been super. Been enjoying your IG stories in the UK the last few days, Christina x
What a spectacular cake!! That caramel pushes it over the top!! I’m still not getting your emails…darn it. I will try subscribing with another email and see if that works. I miss stopping by!!!
P.S. We are planning a June trip to Switzerland. One of my sisters wanted a sister gathering in Paris, but the timing didn’t work for us all. Hopefully some day soon…
Lovely have you pop in to say hello Liz. This email alert service is new so I’m so glad you’ve now signed up and so won’t miss a post.
Switzerland sounds fabulous in June – and no doubt you’ll be enjoying a little chocolate 🙂
Mmm. Wish I could have a piece of this cake right now. I love the addition of chestnut paste and bet it is not too sweet. I have a problem with ‘bought’ cakes because they are far too sweet. Recipe is now in my pending folder. Thank you Jill.
Thanks, Thomasina. Yes, you’re right: I always cut back on sugar as much as I can in my baking. I know you’ll love this!
Looks so lovely Jill
Thanks, dear Betty – hope you try it!