Orange and Raisin Delight

This delightful recipe combines the zesty flavor of oranges with the natural sweetness of apples and raisins, offering a burst of taste in every bite. Ideal for any occasion, these treats are easy to prepare and will become a favorite for both young and old. The interplay of sweet and tart flavors is complemented by a tender crumb, making each bite a delightful experience. Not only does it cater to those with a sweet tooth, but it also offers a little fruity surprise with every nibble. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The inclusion of margarine or butter adds a rich depth, propelling these treats to a new level of deliciousness. Meet your new favorite dessert that's perfect to enjoy with a cup of tea or as a comforting snack post-dinner. Moreover, the use of raisins ensures there's a moist and chewy texture throughout. With just a few ingredients, you can create something truly memorable. It's an excellent recipe for when you're time-crunched and need a quick sweet fix!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200g softened margarine or butter
• 185g sugar
• 4 eggs
• 250g all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder

Fruits:

• 1 orange (optional)
• 1 apple (optional)
• Half a cup of raisins (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of flour (if adding raisins)

Other:

• Paper baking molds

Preparation Time

• Total: 40 minutes
  • Prep time: 25 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius and get your baking essentials ready.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened margarine or butter with sugar. Use a spoon for manual mixing or an electric mixer for a smoother blend.
3. In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Gradually add them to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing continuously.
4. Sift together the flour and baking powder and add these to your main mixture. Stir until just combined.
5. Rinse and dry the orange. Grate it finely, directly into the batter to release its zesty essence.
6. Wash the apple and grate it coarsely, adding it directly into the mix for a subtle crunch.
7. For a bit of chewy delight, coat the raisins with a tablespoon of flour and mix them into the batter. This trick keeps the raisins from sinking.
8. Using a spoon, gently fill each paper mold with the batter. Be cautious not to fill them to the brim; leave a little space for them to rise.
9. Arrange the molds on a baking tray. Place the tray at the center of the oven.
10. Bake for approximately 15 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a knitting needle into one of the treats; it should come out clean if baked through.
11. Allow them a few minutes to cool slightly once removed from the oven.
12. Serve warm for the best taste experience or store in an airtight container for future enjoyment.

Tips

• Opt for high-quality raisins to ensure a plump and juicy outcome.
• You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer taste.
• To enhance the citrus flavor, add a pinch of orange zest to the batter.

Nutritions

• Calories: 220 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds for extra texture.
• Vegan Option: Use an egg substitute and vegan butter for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea.
• Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of orange icing.
• Enjoy alongside creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Best Places

• The Cake Room - A cozy spot known for its inventive cakes and pastries. Location: 2829 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC, USA.
• Baker & Spice - Famous for its unique, freshly baked goods. Location: 54-56 Newington Green Rd, London, UK.
• Raisin D’etre - Known for its raisin-based delights. Location: 1234 Orchard Lane, Paris, France.
• Sweet Crumb Cafe - Offers a warm ambiance with delectable pastries. Location: 22 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Apple Delight Bakery - Perfect for apple-infused treats. Location: 456 Elm St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Sunny Raisin Cafe - Specializes in raisin sweets. Location: 7890 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
• Zesty Orange Bistro - Offers a citrus-themed menu. Location: Hauptstraße 11, Berlin, Germany.
• The Bakery - Known for traditional yet creative bakes. Location: Via Roma 25, Florence, Italy.
• Grain & Y’all - A rustic charm offering hearty bakes. Location: 987 Main St, Austin, USA.
• Orange & Spice - A quaint bakery with a twist on classic recipes. Location: Avenida Rio, Lisbon, Portugal.