Orange-Infused Pound Cake for Leo & Friends

Passion-Gourmet.com

Astrology-based dishes may bring about optimal bliss. Depending on the planetary alignment, the Sun and the Moon, we can prepare delicious recipes to help the capriciousness of the Stars! 

The full Moon is moving from Cancer to Leo. Enthusiasm and vitality are in the air. Let us not forget that it is the second week of the new year and there is still time to get on board with creating the right visualization of what you want the year to be. There is still time to focus on the right thoughts in order to have the successful 2012 you deserve and want. 

While looking at the amazing full Moon last night from my home, I realized it was time to bake something that would set the right tone right before going to bed and also, give us a great way to begin a morning. My Orange-Infused pound cake does just that.

Oranges are ruled by the Sun, which is also Leo's ruling Star. A slice of this moist and fresh pound cake will awaken your vitality and even gain you some friends at the office. So, get your apron and get baking!

Orange-Infused Pound Cake

2 sticks of unsweetened butter

1/2 cup vegetable shortening 

8 oz cream cheese

3 cups sugar

pinch of salt

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

6 eggs

3 cups self-rising flour

zest from 2 oranges

1/2 cup orange juice

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup pignoli 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix the butter, the shortening and the cream cheese until well blended. Add the sugar and combine until creamy. Add the pinch of salt and vanilla. One by one and mixing after each, add the eggs. Alternating, add the flour, juice and milk; make sure you start with flour and end with flour. Mix well until creamy and luscious. Add the orange zest and fold in.

Using a well-greased Bundt pan, drop the pignoli nuts over the bottom and pour the batter. 

Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a knife comes out clean. Remove and let cool. Remove from the pan and slice. Enjoy with a glass of milk or even some champagne.