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Ciambella Romagnola is a traditional Italian cake that hails from the Emilia-Romagna region. This delightful ring-shaped cake is known for its simple ingredients and rich flavor, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this recipe will guide you through creating a moist and fragrant ciambella that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 200ml (about ¾ cup) milk
- 100ml (about ⅓ cup) vegetable oil
- 300g (2 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (about 16g) baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a bundt pan to ensure the ciambella doesn’t stick.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add in the milk and vegetable oil, continuing to whisk until well combined.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and grated lemon zest to the wet mixture, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This helps to aerate the flour and ensures a light cake.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the ciambella from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
FAQs about Ciambella Romagnola
What is Ciambella Romagnola?
Ciambella Romagnola is a traditional Italian ring cake from the Emilia-Romagna region, known for its simplicity and delightful flavor, often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Can I add flavors to Ciambella Romagnola?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like cocoa powder, nuts, or dried fruits to the batter.
How should I store Ciambella Romagnola?
Store the ciambella in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I make Ciambella Romagnola gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend’s instructions for the best results.
What can I serve with Ciambella Romagnola?
This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of gelato for a delicious dessert.
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