Enjoy this delightful Florentine Schiacciata recipe – a soft, Carnival treat with a twist of orange!

Schiacciata Fiorentina [Florentine Orange Cake]

Guido Pasquariello

Florentine Schiacciata is a traditional Tuscan cake, perfect for Carnival. This version combines simple ingredients for a soft, aromatic treat with a hint of orange.

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Prep Time 25

Cook Time 50

Resting Time 30

Course Dessert

Cuisine Italian

Servings 10

Equipment

Knife
Bowl
Whisk
Sieve
24×17 cm Baking Pan
Oven
Stencil to create a design with confectioners' sugar optional

Ingredients

1 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar
2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
⅓ cup whole milk room temperature
3 ½ tablespoons olive oil
3 large eggs
Zest and juice of 1 orange
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 vanilla pod

For Decoration:

Confectioners' sugar as needed
Unsweetened cocoa powder as needed

Instructions

Grate Orange: Grate the zest of one orange into a bowl. Squeeze and strain its juice; set aside.
Zest and juice of 1 orange
Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a bowl, beat eggs, sugar, and vanilla seeds until light and fluffy.
1 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar, 3 large eggs, 1 vanilla pod
Add Flavors: Gradually mix in orange zest and olive oil.
3 ½ tablespoons olive oil
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add orange juice, then milk. Gradually mix in sifted flour and baking powder to form a smooth batter.
2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup whole milk, 1 tablespoon baking powder
Prepare for Baking: Pour batter into a greased and floured 24×17 cm baking pan.
Bake: Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 50 minutes. Let cool before removing from the pan.
Decorate: Dust with confectioners' sugar. Use a stencil to create a design with cocoa powder. Traditionally, the lily, the symbol of the city of Florence, is drawn on top.
Confectioners' sugar, Unsweetened cocoa powder

Notes

Florentine Schiacciata should be low and slightly flattened, as its name suggests.
Store under a glass dome for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended.
Serve with orange-flavored custard cream for added delight!

The Soft and Flavorful Schiacciata alla Fiorentina: A Carnival Treat

Florentine Schiacciata is a special dessert from Florence, perfect for Carnival time. It’s a rectangular, low cake that’s both soft and aromatic. The top is decorated with the famous “Giglio” symbol – a Lily flower, representing Florence. Learn more about traditional dishes from Florence here.

This cake is known for its fluffy texture, thanks to double leavening. It’s flavored with orange zest and juice, and sometimes, a pinch of saffron is added for a unique color and taste!

Schiacciata alla Fiorentina is not just yummy, but also simple. It’s great for breakfast or as a snack.

In Florence, this dessert is a big deal, especially during Carnival in February. You’ll see it at many bakeries, pastry shops, and local festivals.

As an Italian, I love Schiacciata alla Fiorentina! Its softness and delightful taste make it a real treat. If you ever visit Florence, try this dessert – it’s unforgettable!

Check out this article for a list of typical Tuscan sweets and cookies.