Description
Rich chocolate meets zesty mandarin in this irresistible Jamie Oliver dessert. Moist layers infused with citrus notes promise a luxurious experience that delights taste buds and sparks joy with each delectable slice.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 450 grams (1 pound) soft unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 250 grams self-raising flour
- 650 grams icing sugar
- 4 large eggs
Flavor & Texture Enhancers:
- 75 grams cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Filling and Garnish:
- 150 grams light cream cheese
- 1 × 300 grams tin of mandarin segments in juice
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a 25cm x 30cm (10-inch x 12-inch) baking tray by lightly greasing it and lining with parchment paper, ensuring the paper is slightly damp to help it stick smoothly.
- Combine 250 grams (8.8 ounces) of softened butter and equal amount of powdered sugar in a food processor. Incorporate whole eggs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and 50 grams (1.8 ounces) of cocoa powder into the mixture. Add a small amount of liquid from the mandarin orange tin and blend until the batter becomes completely smooth and uniform.
- Transfer the cake batter into the prepared baking tray, using a spatula to distribute it evenly across the surface. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a skewer into the center – it should come out clean. Allow the cake to rest in the tray for 5 minutes before carefully transferring to a wire cooling rack.
- Create the buttercream frosting by processing the remaining 200 grams (7 ounces) of butter with 400 grams (14 ounces) of powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gently fold in cream cheese and a splash of mandarin juice to enhance the flavor if desired.
- Once the cake has completely cooled, slice it into two equal rectangular layers. Spread one-third of the buttercream evenly across the first layer, then delicately arrange mandarin orange segments on top. Carefully position the second cake layer over the first. Optionally trim the edges for a neater appearance. Finish by decorating the top with remaining buttercream and a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
- Select ripe, juicy mandarins bursting with vibrant citrus essence to elevate the dessert’s flavor profile.
- Cool cake on wire rack to maintain perfect sponge texture and prevent soggy bottom.
- Blend ingredients in food processor for silky-smooth batter without pesky lumps.
- Room temperature ingredients ensure seamless mixing and consistent cake texture.
- Trim cake edges for a professional, clean presentation that wows your guests.
- Make ahead and store in airtight container to lock in moisture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: UK
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg