Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Name: Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 cake
Ingredients: 1 cup blood orange juice (freshly squeezed); Zest of 2 blood oranges; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first made this Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake, I was instantly smitten by its moist texture and vibrant flavor. The combination of sweet blood oranges and rich olive oil creates a cake that's both refreshing and indulgent. I love how the olive oil adds a depth of flavor that is unique, making it stand out from traditional cakes. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served at a celebration, this cake is a delightful treat that brings a touch of sunshine to any occasion.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:07:17.638Z

I remember the first time I tasted a blood orange, how its sweet and tangy flavor danced on my palate was unforgettable. This inspired me to create a cake that captured that essence. The beauty of this recipe is in the simplicity; using high-quality olive oil enhances the cake without overpowering the lovely citrus notes. I found that letting the cake cool completely before serving allows the flavors to deepen and become even more harmonious.

One essential tip I've learned is to use freshly squeezed blood orange juice for the best results—store-bought can sometimes lack the vibrancy needed. Pairing this cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar not only elevates its appearance but also adds a delightful sweetness that complements the slight bitterness of the olive oil. I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and flavorful cake infused with blood oranges
Unique use of olive oil adds depth and richness
Perfect for any occasion, from casual to festive
Easy to make with simple ingredients and steps

      

The Role of Olive Oil in Baking

Using extra virgin olive oil in this Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake not only enriches the flavor profile but also contributes to its moist texture. Olive oil provides a unique depth that's different from butter—resulting in a cake that remains tender without being overly greasy. When shopping for olive oil, opt for a high-quality brand, as a better oil will enhance the overall taste of the cake significantly.

If you wish to experiment with flavors, try using flavored olive oils, such as lemon or rosemary, but be sure to keep the blood orange juice and zest as these are key to achieving the signature flavor. Just remember that the subtlety of olive oil might need adjusting—perhaps reducing the amount slightly if using a more pungent variety.

Perfecting Your Cake Technique

When it comes to mixing the ingredients, aim for a smooth batter without overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake due to gluten development in the flour. As soon as you no longer see dry flour, stop mixing! This technique also allows the blood orange zest to fully integrate into the batter, providing bursts of citrus flavor in each bite.

Another tip is to ensure your eggs are at room temperature before incorporating them into the mixture. Room temperature eggs help create a better emulsion with the olive oil, resulting in a fluffier cake. If you forget to take them out in advance, placing them in warm water for about 10 minutes can hasten their warming process.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once your cake has cooled, consider serving slices with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the citrus flavor. For an extra special touch, pair it with a blood orange glaze—just mix powdered sugar with blood orange juice until you achieve your desired consistency and drizzle it over the cooled cake.

If you have leftovers, store the Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, for up to three months. To enjoy it later, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a low oven for a few minutes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious cake!

Cake Ingredients

1 cup blood orange juice (freshly squeezed)
Zest of 2 blood oranges
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your cake!

Preheat the oven

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

Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the blood orange juice, zest, sugar, and eggs until well combined.

Add olive oil

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk the mixture until it’s smooth.

Combine dry ingredients

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

Combine wet and dry

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring until fully combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of blood orange liqueur to the batter or drizzling a simple glaze made from blood orange juice and powdered sugar over the top once cooled.

Ingredient Substitutions

While blood oranges offer a unique flavor, you can substitute regular oranges, grapefruits, or even tangerines in a pinch. Keep in mind that the sweetness and acidity might differ slightly, so adjusting the sugar content may be necessary to maintain balance. For a deeper twist, testing with a hint of lemon juice can add brightness to the overall flavor too.

In terms of flour, if you're looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour can be a fantastic alternative. Just be aware that almond flour creates a denser cake, so you may want to adjust the baking time until the toothpick test is successful.

Troubleshooting Tips

Should your cake turn out too dry, it's likely due to overbaking. Each oven is different, so always start checking for doneness a few minutes before the 45-minute mark. Look for a golden top with a toothpick that comes out clean but with few crumbs clinging to it for the perfect moisture level.

Another common issue could be the cake sticking to the pan. To combat this, ensure you thoroughly grease your pan or consider lining the bottom with parchment paper. This step guarantees a smooth release while preserving that beautiful cake shape.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, you can use regular oranges, but the cake will have a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cooled cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, a fruit compote, or simply enjoyed on its own.