Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Name: Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup fresh blood orange juice; Zest of 2 blood oranges; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp blood orange juice

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake, a delightful dessert that combines the zest of blood oranges with the richness of olive oil.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-20T12:13:49.606Z

This Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is a celebration of citrus and rich flavors. Perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat, its moist texture and vibrant color make it a showstopper at any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique twist on traditional cake with blood orange zest
Moist and tender crumb thanks to olive oil
Perfectly balanced sweetness and citrus tang

      

The Flavor Profile of Blood Oranges

Blood oranges are renowned for their unique flavor that is both sweet and tangy, with hints of raspberry and a vibrant color that can elevate any dish. When incorporated into this cake, they lend not only a beautiful hue but also a refreshing citrusy kick that complements the richness of olive oil. This combination creates a harmonious balance, making each bite a delightful experience.

The zest of blood oranges plays a crucial role in enhancing the cake’s aroma and flavor profile. It infuses the batter with essential oils that amplify the citrus notes, ensuring that the cake is aromatic and flavorful. Using fresh blood oranges for both juice and zest is key to achieving that authentic taste and vibrant color.

Why Olive Oil?

Olive oil is a fantastic alternative to butter in baking, particularly in cakes. It not only provides a moist and tender crumb but also contributes a subtle depth of flavor that enriches the overall profile of the cake. The use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a fruity note, enhancing the cake's complexity and making it stand out from traditional recipes.

Additionally, olive oil brings health benefits to the table. It is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, making this cake a more health-conscious choice without sacrificing flavor. You can enjoy a slice of this delicious cake knowing that it has a touch of nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions

This Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar or serve it with fresh blood orange segments. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this dessert, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy family gathering.

Pair the cake with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of sparkling water infused with citrus for a refreshing contrast. The vibrant flavors of the cake will shine through, making it a delightful centerpiece for any dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 cup fresh blood orange juice
Zest of 2 blood oranges
3 large eggs
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp blood orange juice

Make sure to use fresh blood oranges for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together sugar, olive oil, blood orange juice, and zest. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is cooling, mix powdered sugar with blood orange juice to create a glaze.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set.

Allow the glaze to harden slightly before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To ensure your Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake turns out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve precise measurements, which is especially important for flour and sugar. Additionally, room temperature eggs will blend more easily into the batter, resulting in a smoother texture.

When mixing the batter, avoid overmixing. Stir until just combined to maintain the cake's light and airy crumb. If you notice lumps, don't worry; small lumps are perfectly fine and will bake out during cooking.

Storage and Freshness

To keep your blood orange olive oil cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and enjoy the freshness of the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, you can use regular oranges, but the flavor and color will be different.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance and tastes even better the next day.

→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.