This legendary Italian cake gets its name from the simple measuring technique – 12 tablespoons of each key ingredient creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its incredibly moist crumb and bright citrus flavor, this cake practically melts on your tongue while requiring minimal preparation time. The beauty lies in its simplicity – no complex techniques, just pure Italian tradition that transforms basic pantry ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that will become your go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs (150g / 5.3 oz)
- 1 pinch of salt (1g / 0.04 oz)
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar or vanilla extract (4g / 0.14 oz)
- 12 tbsp granulated sugar (180g / 6.3 oz / ¾ cup + 2 tbsp)
- 12 tbsp sunflower oil (120ml / 4 fl oz / ½ cup)
- Zest of 1 orange (10g / 0.35 oz)
- 12 tbsp fresh orange juice (120ml / 4 fl oz / ½ cup)
- 12 tbsp all-purpose flour (180g / 6.3 oz / 1¼ cups)
- 1 tbsp baking powder (15g / 0.5 oz)
- Butter for greasing
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Preheat oven to 175°C (347°F/Gas Mark 4). Grease a 20cm (8-inch) round cake pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
- Beat eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, combine eggs, salt, and vanilla sugar. Beat with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
- Add sugar: Gradually add the 12 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened.
- Incorporate wet ingredients: Add sunflower oil, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift together flour and baking powder. Add to the wet ingredients in two batches, mixing gently after each addition until just combined and smooth.
- Bake the cake: Pour batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Time and Serving Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 8-10 slices
Nutrition (Per Slice)
Calories: 285 | Protein: 4g | Carbs: 42g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 1g
Why This Recipe is Healthy
This Italian 12-spoon cake offers several nutritional advantages over traditional heavy desserts. The use of sunflower oil instead of butter provides healthier unsaturated fats and vitamin E, an important antioxidant for skin and immune health. Fresh orange juice and zest contribute natural vitamin C, supporting immune function and collagen production, while adding natural citrus flavors that reduce the need for artificial additives. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline for brain health. The moderate sugar content and light texture mean you can enjoy a satisfying portion without the heaviness of butter-laden cakes. The simple, natural ingredients make this cake easier to digest, while the bright citrus notes can help satisfy sweet cravings with a refreshing finish rather than overwhelming richness.