Rustic Orange & Farmer's Cheese Cake

This cake belongs to the batter-dough family, where the density of cheese meets the lightness of whipped eggs. Orange juice and milk ensure the dough is juicy, while the essential oils in the zest provide intense aroma. A light yet substantial dessert.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 40 mins
Total Time 55 mins
🍽️ Servings 12 servings
🔥 Calories 280 kcal
🌍 Cuisine International

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Cake Pan: (approx. 9 inch).
  • Whisk: for the eggs.
  • Zester: for the orange.
  • Cake Tester: for checking doneness.

Allergen Information

⚠️ Wheat
⚠️ Milk
⚠️ Egg

Instructions

1

Melt 1/2 cup (100g) of butter and let it cool to lukewarm. Use the remaining butter to grease the cake pan, then dust with a little flour.

Tip: Greasing and flouring the pan guarantees the batter can climb the sides while rising but release easily after baking.
2

Beat the eggs with the sugar and vanilla extract until foamy, increased in volume, and pale in color.

Tip: Sugar crystals cut tiny air bubbles into the eggs, which expand in the oven heat – making the cake light. (Mechanical leavening)
3

In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and salt.

Tip: Salt enhances sweet flavors and the orange aroma.
4

Add the melted butter, milk, pressed cheese, orange zest, and orange juice to the egg mixture. Mix until smooth.

Tip: Mash the cheese with a fork or press through a sieve beforehand for a creamy texture.
5

Fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing only until the flour disappears.

Tip: Overmixing activates gluten, making the cake rubbery and dense. Fold gently!
6

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 35-40 minutes.

Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
7

Test with a cake tester or toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, remove and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Tip: The cake structure is weak when hot; resting solidifies it enough to prevent falling apart when slicing.

Recipe FAQ

Why did the center collapse?
You likely opened the oven door too early, or the baking powder lost its potency. Sudden temperature changes hurt rising dough.
Can I substitute the orange juice?
Yes, it works with milk or other fruit juices, but the flavor character will change.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 1 lb Farmer's Cheese
  • 1 whole Orange
  • 3 large Eggs
  • 1/2 cup Butter (plus extra for greasing)
  • 1/2 cup Milk
  • 2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 1/2 cup Orange Juice