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: 1 cup olive oil; 1 cup sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Zest of 2 blood oranges; Juice of 2 blood oranges; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons blood orange juice; Zest of 1 blood orange

Highlighted under: Artisan Bakery Recipes

Indulge in the zesty and moist Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake, a delightful treat that combines the richness of olive oil with the vibrant flavor of blood oranges.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:37:48.883Z

This cake is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion, especially in the winter months when blood oranges are in season.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Unique Flavor of Blood Oranges

Blood oranges are a striking fruit with a deep red hue and an intense, sweet flavor that sets them apart from regular oranges. Their unique taste profile offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making them an excellent choice for desserts. When baked into the Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake, they infuse the cake with a refreshing citrus zing that perfectly complements the rich olive oil.

In addition to their flavor, blood oranges are also packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. Incorporating them into your diet can provide a health boost while indulging in a sweet treat. Their vibrant color also adds a beautiful aesthetic to any dessert, making it visually appealing and perfect for special occasions.

The Benefits of Olive Oil in Baking

Using olive oil instead of butter in baking not only enhances the flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health and reduce inflammation. It also has a lower saturated fat content than butter, making it a healthier alternative.

Moreover, olive oil contributes to a moist cake texture that is hard to achieve with traditional butter. The fat content in olive oil helps create a tender crumb, ensuring that each bite of the Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is light and fluffy, while still being rich and satisfying.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing the overall indulgence. For a more sophisticated touch, consider serving it with a side of mascarpone cheese mixed with a hint of honey, which complements the citrus flavors beautifully.

For a festive presentation, garnish the top of the cake with slices of fresh blood oranges or a sprinkle of edible flowers. This not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the cake for special occasions, making it a stunning centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup olive oil
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Zest of 2 blood oranges
Juice of 2 blood oranges

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons blood orange juice
Zest of 1 blood orange

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil and sugar until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

Add Zest and Juice

Fold in the blood orange zest and juice until evenly distributed.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar, blood orange juice, and zest to create the glaze.

Cool and Glaze

Once baked, allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake.

Enjoy your delicious Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake!

Storing and Freezing the Cake

To keep your Capricorn 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, consider refrigerating it, which can help maintain its moisture and flavor for up to a week.

For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature and drizzle with the glaze for a fresh taste.

Customizing Your Cake

Feel free to experiment with the flavors in this cake! You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth or incorporate other citrus fruits like lime or lemon for a unique twist. Adding a handful of chocolate chips can also provide a delightful contrast to the citrus notes.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that the baking powder is also gluten-free to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, you can substitute 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 freeze the cake?

Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs well with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh fruit.