Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Name: Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake: A Delicious Twist Awaits!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 cup blood orange juice; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 blood orange

Posted on December 5, 2025

DESSERT

Difficulty

Prep time

Cooking time

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Servings

Introduction to Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to baking. That’s why I adore this Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake. It’s not just a cake; it’s a delightful escape into a world of flavor and simplicity. Imagine a moist, fragrant cake that practically bakes itself while you tackle your to-do list. This recipe is perfect for impressing loved ones or simply treating yourself after a long day. With its vibrant blood orange notes and the richness of olive oil, this cake is a sweet hug in dessert form.

Why You’ll Love This Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

This Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is a game-changer for busy lives. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 15 minutes of prep time. The unique flavor of blood oranges adds a refreshing twist that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, the moist texture from the olive oil means it stays delicious for days. It’s a simple yet impressive dessert that brings joy to any occasion!

Ingredients for Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake, giving it structure and a light texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the tartness of the blood oranges and helps create a moist crumb.
Olive oil: This is the star ingredient! It adds richness and a subtle fruity flavor, making the cake incredibly moist.
Blood orange juice: The juice infuses the cake with a vibrant citrus flavor and a beautiful color. If you can’t find blood oranges, regular oranges work too!
Large eggs: Eggs provide moisture and help bind the ingredients together, contributing to the cake’s fluffy texture.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise, giving it that lovely lightness.
Baking soda: It works alongside the baking powder to ensure the cake rises perfectly.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
Zest of blood orange: The zest adds an extra punch of citrus flavor, elevating the cake to new heights.

For those looking to add a little something extra, consider a blood orange glaze on top for added sweetness and a beautiful finish. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delightful Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautiful cake that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking, ensuring your cake rises perfectly. While the oven warms up, grease a 9-inch round cake pan. I like to use olive oil for greasing, as it complements the cake’s flavor.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is essential for the cake’s texture. By combining these dry ingredients first, you ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps the cake rise beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, olive oil, blood orange juice, eggs, and zest. This combination brings a burst of flavor to your cake. The olive oil adds richness, while the blood orange juice and zest infuse it with a refreshing citrus note that dances on your palate.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; every oven is a little different!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. For a lovely presentation, consider dusting it with powdered sugar or drizzling a blood orange glaze on top. Serve it with whipped cream or fresh fruit for an extra touch!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
Don’t skip the zest; it adds a vibrant flavor that elevates the cake.
Check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
Let the cake cool completely before serving for the best texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it moist.

Equipment Needed

9-inch round cake pan (a square pan works too!)
Mixing bowls (a large and a medium size are ideal)
Whisk (a fork can work in a pinch)
Spatula (a wooden spoon is a good alternative)
Wire rack (you can use a plate if you don’t have one)

Variations of Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.
Vegan Twist: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based milk instead of blood orange juice.
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey version that pairs beautifully with blood orange.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the batter for a unique savory twist that complements the citrus.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
Serve alongside fresh berries to enhance the citrus flavor.
Drizzle with a blood orange glaze for a stunning finish.
Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Absolutely! While blood oranges add a unique flavor and color, regular oranges can be a great substitute. Just keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different, but still delicious!

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a light glaze. A cup of herbal tea or coffee makes for a cozy pairing, too!

Is this cake suitable for special diets?

This Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake can be adapted for various diets. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. You can also make it vegan by substituting eggs with flaxseed meal and using plant-based milk.

Final Thoughts

Baking this Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is more than just a culinary task; it’s a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. Each slice offers a burst of citrusy goodness, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply indulging after a long day, this cake brings a sense of comfort and happiness. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this cake as I do. It’s a sweet reminder that even in our busy lives, we can create something beautiful and delicious!