Description
Discover a simple and authentic Italian Colomba Cake recipe that delivers a soft, fluffy texture with natural ingredients and vibrant citrus flavors. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or everyday treats, this classic Italian dessert combines a tender crumb with a crunchy almond topping and sweet glaze for a delightful experience every time.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- Zest of 2 large oranges
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping & Glaze
- 3/4 cup (100g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp water (for glaze)
- 1/2 cup whole or chopped almonds
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: Gently warm the milk until warm to the touch, then stir in the active dry yeast along with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy to ensure the cake will rise beautifully and be airy.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and freshly grated orange zest until fully combined and fragrant. This blend adds richness and flavor to the dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar to remove lumps and make blending smoother.
- Form the Dough: Add the yeast mixture and the wet ingredient mix into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir gently to form a sticky dough, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This slow rise is crucial for the soft texture.
- Shape the Cake: Punch down the dough gently and shape it into the traditional dove form or place it in a loaf pan for convenience. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Topping: Mix the powdered sugar with a little water to make a glaze. Brush it generously over the top of the dough, then sprinkle whole or chopped almonds for a crisp finish.
- Final Rise: Let the cake rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
Notes
- Use fresh orange zest and quality butter for the most vibrant flavors.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to blend evenly and add moisture.
- Knead the dough slowly to develop gluten and create a soft yet elastic texture.
- Do not rush the rising steps; well-proofed dough is key for fluffiness.
- Watch baking time closely during the last 10 minutes to avoid over-browning.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Italian Colomba Cake, Italian dessert, citrus cake, almond cake, traditional Italian cake, holiday cake, fluffy cake