The aroma of autumn fills the air as I pull a tray of warm Persimmon Cake with Brown Butter Orange Frosting from the oven. This delightful dessert is a love letter to the season, featuring moist, dense layers that celebrate the sweet, honey-like flavor of ripe persimmons. Not only is this cake a showstopper for holiday gatherings, but it also boasts the convenience of quick prep and advanced component options—perfect for those of us balancing busy schedules with a passion for homemade goodness. Topped with a creamy brown butter orange frosting, each slice invites cozy conversations and sweet moments around the table. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you—who’s ready to experience fall in every bite?
Why is this cake a must-bake?
Moist, Decadent Layers: This Persimmon Cake is incredibly dense and rich, bringing the sweetness of ripe persimmons right into your kitchen.
Elevated Flavor: The brown butter orange frosting adds an irresistible nutty richness, making every bite a pure delight!
Easy Prep: With the ability to make key components ahead of time, you’ll save precious minutes during busy holiday gatherings.
Versatile Serving: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a charming brunch or an elegant dinner party, this cake will impress friends and family alike.
Why not pair it with Garlic Butter Meatballs for a delicious meal that captures comfort and joy? Enjoy the flavors of fall with every slice of this incredible cake!
Persimmon Cake Ingredients
• Prep your kitchen for a delicious fall treat!
For the Cake
- All Purpose Flour – Provides structure. No substitutions necessary.
- Baking Powder – Leavening agent. Ensure it’s fresh for proper rise.
- Baking Soda – Assists in leavening and browning. Combine with acidic ingredients for maximum effect.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spiciness. Can substitute with nutmeg for a different flavor.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Do not omit, as it balances sweetness.
- Large Eggs – Provides moisture and binding. Substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture. Can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and moisture. Substitute with any neutral oil or melted butter.
- Persimmon Puree – Key flavor ingredient and moisture source. Use very ripe Hachiya persimmons for best results.
- Milk – Adds moisture. Can substitute with any plant-based milk.
- Orange Zest – Adds citrus aroma and flavor. Lemon zest can be used instead for a different twist.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity. Use high-quality extract for best results.
For the Frosting
- Unsalted Butter – Base for frosting, providing creaminess. Margarine can be used as a dairy-free option.
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and texture to frosting. Can prepare using coconut sugar for gluten-free option.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Enhances orange flavor in frosting. Lemon juice can be used for a different citrus note.
- Milk/Cream – Adjusts frosting consistency. Non-dairy alternatives can be used.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor to frosting. Ensure it’s pure for best results.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Persimmon Cake with Brown Butter Orange Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for ensuring the Persimmon Cake bakes evenly and develops that lovely, golden-brown crust we all adore. While the oven warms up, you can gather and prepare your baking pan for the cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease an 8×8” baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the cake releases easily once baked. This small step is crucial for a clean presentation, allowing your delicious Persimmon Cake to shine without any sticky problems when it’s time to serve.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure these ingredients are well combined to create the perfect foundation for your cake. Setting them aside allows the flavors to blend, making the subsequent steps even easier as you incorporate your wet ingredients.
Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk your eggs, granulated sugar, and olive oil until the mixture becomes frothy and slightly thickened—about 2-3 minutes. This step ensures that the sugar dissolves well, creating a perfect blend of moisture and flavor for your Persimmon Cake, setting the stage for the addition of the star ingredient—persimmon puree!
Step 5: Add Persimmon and Other Flavors
Stir in the persimmon puree, milk, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is seamlessly combined. The mixture should have a beautiful, creamy consistency, and the aroma of orange and persimmons will fill your kitchen. This delightful combination elevates the cake with a rich, moist texture that is characteristic of this amazing dessert.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The batter will thicken slightly, and you should see hints of the spices throughout. Pour this delicious mixture into your prepared baking pan, making sure to distribute it evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Bake your Persimmon Cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is puffed, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This visual cue is essential in achieving the perfect moist texture that makes this cake a seasonal favorite.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial as it helps set the texture and flavors while allowing the cake to become easier to handle when frosting. Patience pays off here; your cake will taste even better with a little waiting!
Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
For the brown butter frosting, start by browning unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it becomes golden and nutty—about 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once browned, let it cool slightly before moving on to the next step for the creamy, luscious frosting that complements the Persimmon Cake.
Step 10: Mix Frosting Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the browned butter with powdered sugar, orange zest, fresh orange juice, a dash of milk, and vanilla extract. Whip these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and spreadable. The consistency should be thick enough to hold shape but easily spreadable, enhancing the cake with its rich flavor.
Step 11: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, generously frost the top with your delicious brown butter orange frosting. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with additional persimmon slices or lightly toasted pecans to elevate its presentation and flavor profile. Every bite will be a delightful experience of warmth and sweetness.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the frosted Persimmon Cake into squares and serve it at room temperature. This cake is perfect for any occasion, offering a taste of fall that invites warmth into every gathering. Your loved ones will surely cherish this comforting treat, creating sweet moments around the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Persimmon Cake with Brown Butter Orange Frosting components make for fantastic meal prep options, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the persimmon puree up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it; this actually enhances the flavor. Additionally, the cake itself can be baked up to 24 hours ahead—just store it in an airtight container to keep it moist. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cooled cake with the brown butter orange frosting, which can be made up to 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a quick stir before using to ensure it’s just as creamy and delicious!
Helpful Tricks for Persimmon Cake
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Choose Ripe Persimmons: Ensure you use very ripe Hachiya persimmons for the purée; they provide the best sweetness and texture, avoiding any bitterness.
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Brown Butter Carefully: When browning the butter for the frosting, stir continuously and keep an eye on it to prevent burning; a nutty aroma indicates it’s ready!
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Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; this ensures the frosting doesn’t melt and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender texture in the Persimmon Cake.
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Enhance with Add-ins: Consider adding dried fruits or nuts to the batter for an extra depth of flavor and texture, making the cake even more delightful.
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Frost to Taste: Adjust the thickness of the frosting with milk for a spreadable consistency, ensuring it complements the cake without overwhelming it.
What to Serve with Persimmon Cake with Brown Butter Orange Frosting
This delightful cake is not just a treat on its own; it yearns for delicious companions that elevate your meal to a comforting celebration.
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Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea complements the cake’s flavors beautifully, enhancing the warm spices in the dessert. The aromatic notes will create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying this delightful cake.
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Cinnamon Sugared Pecans: Crunchy, sweet pecans add texture and a nutty vibe, pairing wonderfully with the moist cake. The sweetness balances the cake’s richness, creating a mouthwatering contrast.
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Whipped Cream: This light, fluffy topping adds a creamy touch that blends perfectly with the dense cake. A dollop of homemade whipped cream brightens the flavors and provides a delightful contrast in texture.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice introduces a decadent sweetness that brings out the honey-like flavors of the persimmons. It’s an indulgent touch that craves to be savored.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cold, smooth layer to the cake’s warm, dense texture. It’s a classic pairing that makes every bite a memorable experience of sweet bliss.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: This effervescent drink can cut through the richness of the cake, refreshing your palate with every sip. Serve it chilled as a delightful beverage to accompany your bite of fall flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Persimmon Cake
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This maintains the cake’s moistness while allowing the flavors to develop further.
Freezer: If you want to save your Persimmon Cake for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: For a warm slice, microwave on low power for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature for the full flavor experience.
Frosting Storage: Store any extra brown butter orange frosting in the fridge for up to a week. Re-whip before using to restore its creamy texture.
Persimmon Cake with Brown Butter Orange Frosting Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make this delightful cake your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
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Dried Fruits: Add cranberries or raisins to the batter for bursts of sweetness and texture, creating a more complex flavor profile in every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Substitute walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cake. Alternatively, for a nut-free option, simply omit them and enjoy the cake’s pure flavor.
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Cupcake Version: Transform this recipe into cupcakes by using a standard muffin tin. Adjust baking time to about 20 minutes, watching for a toothpick to come out clean. Perfect for portion control!
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Vegan Delight: Swap out the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water to make a vegan version that’s just as rich and satisfying, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
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Flavored Frosting: Experiment with your frosting by adding lemon juice instead of orange for a zesty twist, or try incorporating a hint of cinnamon to echo the spices in the cake.
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Sugar Alternatives: Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index cake that’s still sweet and delicious. It also adds a slight caramel flavor that pairs wonderfully with persimmons.
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Spice it Up: For a warm kick, try adding a pinch of ginger or nutmeg along with the cinnamon. This will create a more aromatic experience that enhances the overall fall flavor.
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Citrus Zest: Mix in different zests like lemon or lime with the orange for a nuanced citrus experience that brightens each slice.
Feel free to combine these ideas to make a version that fits perfectly into your culinary vibe—whether it’s with family at home or as a special treat at gatherings. And if you’re curious about how to elevate your meals further, you might love trying your hand at these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites or even a rich Garlic Butter Steak to serve alongside your cake!
Persimmon Cake with Brown Butter Orange Frosting Recipe FAQs
What kind of persimmons should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using very ripe Hachiya persimmons. Their sweet, honey-like flavor and soft texture make them ideal for the purée, ensuring your cake is moist and delicious.
How should I store leftovers?
Simply place your leftover Persimmon Cake in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. I always find that letting it sit allows the flavors to meld even further, making each slice a delightful treat!
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best flavor and texture.
My cake didn’t rise properly; what went wrong?
Very! If your cake didn’t rise well, it could be due to inactive baking powder or baking soda. Always check the expiration dates of these leavening agents before use. Additionally, ensure that you’re not overmixing the batter, as this can create a dense texture rather than a light and fluffy one.
Can I make the frosting dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the unsalted butter in the frosting with a dairy-free margarine or a vegan butter alternative. This allows you to enjoy the creamy brown butter orange frosting while accommodating dietary needs.
What other additions can I make to this cake?
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins into the batter for added sweetness and texture. You can also incorporate nuts for a delightful crunch, or transform the cake into cupcakes by adjusting the baking time accordingly to about 20 minutes.
Moist Persimmon Cake with Brown Butter Orange Frosting Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8x8” baking pan thoroughly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk your eggs, granulated sugar, and olive oil until frothy.
- Stir in the persimmon puree, milk, orange zest, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and distribute evenly.
- Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Brown unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat until golden and nutty.
- In a bowl, combine browned butter with powdered sugar, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and milk; whip until smooth.
- Once cooled, frost the top of the cake with the brown butter orange frosting.
- Cut the cake into squares and serve at room temperature.
