Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Blood Orange Loaf Cake is a delicious and vibrant treat that brightens any occasion. Its unique flavor profile, combining the sweet tartness of blood oranges with a moist cake texture, makes it perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply as a delightful dessert. This loaf cake stands out not only for its taste but also for its beautiful appearance, making it an impressive centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of blood orange zest and juice infuses the cake with a refreshing citrus flavor that elevates your baking experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, glazed, or topped with a rich chocolate cream for added indulgence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family gathering, this loaf cake fits right in.
• Beautiful Presentation: The attractive color and glaze make this cake visually appealing, enhancing your table’s look.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Blood Orange Loaf Cake, gather the essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (2lb)
• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer or electric hand whisk
• Sifter
• Spatula
• Measuring scales

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf Pan: A sturdy loaf pan ensures even baking and gives the cake its classic shape.
• Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Whisk: These tools help create a light and airy batter by incorporating air effectively.
• Sifter: Using a sifter helps prevent lumps in your dry ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 230 g Caster Sugar
• 10 g Blood Orange Zest
• 170 g Whole Eggs
• 115 g Double / Heavy Cream
• 185 g Cake Flour
• 3 g Baking Powder
• 3 g Fine Sea Salt
• 60 g Neutral Oil (Vegetable or Groundnut)
• 50 g Blood Orange Juice

For the Syrup

• 50 g Sugar
• Lemon Juice
• Blood Orange Juice

For the Chocolate Cream (Optional)

• 3 g Powdered Vegan gelatin
• 18 g Cold Water
• 100 g Whole Milk
• 135 g Dark Chocolate, Melted
• 10 g Glucose
• 200 g Double/Heavy Cream

For the Glaze

• 100 g Icing/Powdered Sugar

How to Make Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 160C/320F (Non-fan Assisted). Lightly grease your 2lb loaf tin and coat it with flour before tipping out the excess.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In a bowl, massage the blood orange zest into the caster sugar for about one minute.
2. Add the whole eggs to the bowl and whisk together using a stand mixer or electric hand whisk on medium speed for three minutes until thicker and lighter in color.
3. Pour in the double cream and whisk again until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Remove the bowl from the mixer and scrape off any zest stuck to the whisk back into the batter.
2. Sift in the cake flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt.
3. Gently whisk these dry ingredients into the wet mixture by hand until just combined.

Step 4: Add Oil & Bake

1. Whisk in the neutral oil until you achieve a smooth batter.
2. Pour this mixture into your prepared loaf tin.
3. Pipe a thin line of soft butter down the center and bake for around 65-75 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Step 5: Make Syrup While Baking

While your cake bakes, boil together syrup ingredients until sugar dissolves completely. Set aside to cool.

Step 6: Soak & Chill Cake

Once baked, remove it from the tin and poke holes using a skewer. Soak it with syrup while still warm then wrap tightly with cling film and chill overnight for improved texture.

Continue following these steps to finish your delicious Blood Orange Loaf Cake!

How to Serve Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Blood Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Classic Slices

• Serve thick slices of the cake on a decorative platter for a simple yet elegant presentation.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a pop of color and flavor that complements the citrus notes.

Drizzled with Glaze

• Add a glossy finish by drizzling the lemon and blood orange glaze over the slices for extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Paired with Whipped Cream

• Serve alongside freshly whipped cream for a rich and creamy contrast that balances the zesty flavors of the cake.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Enjoy thinly sliced pieces with your morning coffee or tea for a refreshing start to your day.

How to Perfect Blood Orange Loaf Cake

To achieve the best results with your Blood Orange Loaf Cake, consider these helpful tips:

• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of ingredients to ensure consistent results.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture to avoid dense cake; stop mixing once just combined.
• Check Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when fully baked. Adjust baking time as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Blood Orange Loaf Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the richness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, sweet flavor of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the citrus notes in the loaf cake.
3. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt adds creaminess while balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
4. Herbal Tea: Serve with chamomile or mint tea for a soothing beverage that complements the flavors of blood orange.
5. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or goat cheese, to create an interesting flavor combination.
6. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over slices for those who enjoy an indulgent touch alongside citrus flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking is an art, and even small mistakes can affect your Blood Orange Loaf Cake. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Incorrect Oven Temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately – Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale for measuring ingredients like flour and sugar for the best results.
• Overmixing the Batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the Soaking Step – The syrup soaking adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it significantly enhances the cake’s taste.
• Using Old Ingredients – Fresh ingredients yield the best flavors. Check expiration dates on baking powder and other components before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy access.

Freezing Blood Orange Loaf Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Blood Orange Loaf Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 160C/320F and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Microwave slices on low power for about 15-20 seconds; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Blood Orange Loaf Cake Special?

Blood orange adds a unique flavor and vibrant color, making this loaf cake stand out among traditional recipes.

Can I Substitute Other Citrus Fruits?

Yes! You can replace blood orange with regular oranges or grapefruits, but the flavor profile will differ slightly.

How Can I Customize My Blood Orange Loaf Cake?

Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture or using different spices like cardamom or cinnamon to enhance the flavor.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Vegan Diets?

If you want a vegan version, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use plant-based cream alternatives.

How Do I Achieve a Moist Cake?

Ensure not to overbake your loaf cake and soak it with syrup after baking to enhance moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Blood Orange Loaf Cake is not only visually stunning but also bursting with citrus flavor that delights any palate. Its versatility allows you to customize it with nuts or chocolate, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a slice of sunshine!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Blood Orange Loaf Cake

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Blood Orange Loaf Cake, a delightful dessert that captivates both the eye and the palate. Combining the sweet-tart essence of blood oranges with a moist, tender crumb, this cake is perfect for any occasion—from festive celebrations to cozy afternoon teas. The unique citrus infusion not only brings brightness but also elevates your baking experience. Topped with a glossy glaze or served with fresh berries, this loaf cake is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 230 g caster sugar
• 10 g blood orange zest
• 170 g whole eggs
• 115 g double cream
• 185 g cake flour
• 3 g baking powder
• 3 g fine sea salt
• 60 g neutral oil (vegetable or groundnut)
• 50 g blood orange juice
• 50 g sugar (for syrup)
• lemon juice
• blood orange juice (for syrup)
• 3 g powdered vegan gelatin (for chocolate cream)
• 18 g cold water (for chocolate cream)
• 100 g whole milk (for chocolate cream)
• 135 g dark chocolate, melted (for chocolate cream)
• 10 g glucose (for chocolate cream)
• 200 g double cream (for chocolate cream)
• 100 g icing/powdered sugar (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 160C/320F (Non-fan Assisted). Lightly grease your 2lb loaf tin and coat it with flour before tipping out the excess.
2. In a bowl, massage the blood orange zest into the caster sugar for about one minute.
3. Add the whole eggs to the bowl and whisk together using a stand mixer or electric hand whisk on medium speed for three minutes until thicker and lighter in color.
4. Pour in the double cream and whisk again until combined.
5. Remove the bowl from the mixer and scrape off any zest stuck to the whisk back into the batter.
6. Sift in the cake flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt.
7. Gently whisk these dry ingredients into the wet mixture by hand until just combined.
8. Whisk in the neutral oil until you achieve a smooth batter.
9. Pour this mixture into your prepared loaf tin.
10. Pipe a thin line of soft butter down the center and bake for around 65-75 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
11. While your cake bakes, boil together syrup ingredients until sugar dissolves completely. Set aside to cool.
12. Once baked, remove it from the tin and poke holes using a skewer. Soak it with syrup while still warm then wrap tightly with cling film and chill overnight for improved texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Contemporary

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 267
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 155mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 48mg