greek orange cake

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 1 cup (240ml) plain yogurt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Syrup:

• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Prepare the Syrup:
   • In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and orange juice.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, orange juice, yogurt, and eggs until smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine and Fold:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
   • Fold in the melted butter and orange zest.
6. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Syrup the Cake:
   • While the cake is still warm, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the cake.
   • Let it soak in and cool completely before serving.