Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Blood Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that brings the vibrant flavors of citrus into a moist and tender loaf. Perfect for any occasion, this cake stands out with its bright blood orange zest and juice, making it both eye-catching and delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with your morning coffee, this recipe is sure to impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The blood orange zest and juice infuse the cake with a refreshing citrus taste that elevates any dessert table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, glazed, or topped with a rich chocolate cream for an indulgent treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for celebrations, tea parties, or just a cozy afternoon snack.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this loaf cake fits perfectly into your baking routine.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Chilling the cake overnight enhances its flavor and texture, making it an excellent make-ahead option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 2lb Loaf Pan
• Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Whisk
• Mixing Bowls
• Sifter
• Spatula
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Electric Hand Whisk: These tools help achieve the perfect batter consistency by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
• Sifter: Sifting flour and dry ingredients ensures a light and fluffy cake texture by removing lumps.

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, ensuring to coat the inside with flour before tipping out any excess.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, massage the blood orange zest into the caster sugar for about one minute. Then add the eggs. Using a stand mixer or electric hand whisk, mix on medium speed for three minutes until thicker and paler in color. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk again until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Remove the bowl from the mixer. Scrape off any orange zest stuck to the whisk back into the batter. Sift in cake flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Gently whisk them in by hand until just combined.

Step 4: Add Oil and Bake

Whisk in neutral oil until you have a smooth batter. Pour this mixture into your prepared loaf tin. Pipe a thin line of soft butter down the center of the batter before baking it for about 65-75 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.

Step 5: Prepare Syrup While Baking

While your cake bakes, prepare your syrup by boiling together sugar with lemon juice and blood orange juice until dissolved. Set aside once done.

Step 6: Soak and Chill

After baking, remove your cake from the tin and poke holes in it with skewer. Soak it generously with syrup before wrapping tightly in cling film. Chill overnight to improve texture.

Step 7: Make Optional Chocolate Cream

In a small bowl, stir together powdered vegan gelatin with cold water; let sit for five minutes. In a saucepan over low heat, combine whole milk and glucose until simmering. Remove from heat; stir in bloomed gelatin until dissolved. Gradually pour hot milk over melted chocolate in three additions while stirring vigorously until smooth. Blend in cold cream before covering with cling film and refrigerating overnight.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze

Preheat oven again at 160C/320F for glazing. In a bowl sift icing sugar then whisk in enough lemon juice to make a thick paste—start with half a lemon’s juice—and add fresh blood orange juice for color.

Step 9: Final Steps

Remove chilled cake from fridge; paint glaze over its surface before placing it on a baking tray back in the oven for 1-2 minutes just to set glaze. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Enjoy your delightful 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 a slice with your morning coffee, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful and flavorful contrast.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for extra creaminess and richness that complements the citrus flavor.

Drizzled with Citrus Glaze

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling the citrus glaze over the cake just before serving, adding a sweet and tangy finish.

Paired with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy a slice with your favorite tea or coffee. The citrus notes of the cake pair wonderfully with both hot beverages.

As a Dessert Platter

• Create a dessert platter by adding other treats like cookies or mini pastries alongside the loaf cake for an impressive presentation.

Served Warm or Cold

• Offer the cake either warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, letting guests choose their preferred temperature.

How to Perfect Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Achieving the perfect Blood Orange Loaf Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create this delicious dessert effortlessly.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh blood oranges and high-quality butter to enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix your batter after adding dry ingredients to avoid dense cake; overmixing can lead to tough baked goods.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. Baking at the right temperature is crucial for even cooking.
• Let It Chill: Allowing the cake to chill overnight improves its texture, making it moist and delicious when served.
• Experiment with Glazes: Try different citrus juices in your glaze for unique flavors that complement the blood orange.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature or refrigerated to maintain freshness longer.

Best Side Dishes for Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Pairing side dishes with Blood Orange Loaf Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Citrus Salad
   A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, grapefruit, and orange segments adds brightness to your dessert table.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Creamy vanilla ice cream balances out the tartness of the loaf cake, creating a delightful contrast in flavors.
3. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a nutritious side that pairs well with the sweet loaf cake.
4. Chocolate Mousse
   Rich chocolate mousse offers a luxurious touch that pairs nicely with the citrus notes of the cake.
5. Honey Roasted Nuts
   Sweet and crunchy honey-roasted nuts provide texture and flavor that complements each bite of cake wonderfully.
6. Lemon Sorbet
   A light lemon sorbet serves as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich loaf cake while enhancing citrus flavors.
7. Cheese Platter
   A selection of soft cheeses such as mascarpone or goat cheese adds a savory element that balances out sweetness beautifully.
8. Herb-Infused Olive Oil Bread
   Serve slices of herb-infused bread alongside your loaf cake for a savory option that contrasts nicely with sweet flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blood Orange Loaf Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring Zest: Not incorporating blood orange zest into the sugar can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to massage the zest into the sugar for a minute for maximum infusion.
• Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can cause your cake to become dense. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined for a light texture.
• Inaccurate Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the cake’s rise and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the cake with syrup can result in a drier loaf. Poke holes in the baked cake and soak it thoroughly for extra moisture.
• Not Allowing Time to Chill: Chilling the cake overnight improves its texture. Patience is key for achieving that perfect loaf!
• Neglecting Glaze Adjustments: A glaze that’s too thick can be unappealing. Use lemon juice gradually to achieve a smooth consistency that enhances the flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in cling film.

Freezing Blood Orange Loaf Cake

• Duration: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or an airtight container.

Reheating Blood Orange Loaf Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed, about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blood Orange Loaf Cake.

What is Blood Orange Loaf Cake?

Blood Orange Loaf Cake is a moist dessert made with fresh blood orange juice and zest, providing a vibrant citrus flavor.

Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, you can substitute regular oranges, but this will change the color and slightly alter the flavor profile of your loaf cake.

How do I achieve a better texture in my Blood Orange Loaf Cake?

To improve texture, ensure you soak the cake with syrup after baking and chill it overnight before serving.

What are some variations I can try with Blood Orange Loaf Cake?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or different citrus juices to customize your loaf cake according to your taste preferences.

How long does Blood Orange Loaf Cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months when frozen.

Final Thoughts

The Blood Orange Loaf Cake is not only delicious but also offers versatility for customization. From adding nuts to pairing it with different glazes, there are endless possibilities. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and make it your own!