Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake

Name: Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup olive oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup blood orange juice; Zest of 2 blood oranges; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons blood orange juice

Highlighted under: Taste the World

Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake, a perfect blend of citrus and rich olive oil that creates a moist and flavorful dessert.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:09:49.135Z

This Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is inspired by the vibrant flavors of blood oranges, offering a unique twist on a classic dessert. The use of olive oil not only adds a rich depth but also keeps the cake incredibly moist.

        Why You'll 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 Profile

The Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is an exceptional dessert that beautifully merges the vibrant zest of blood oranges with the rich, fruity notes of high-quality olive oil. Blood oranges, known for their unique color and sweet-tart flavor, elevate the taste of this cake, making it a standout choice for any occasion. The olive oil not only contributes to the cake's moist texture but also adds a depth of flavor that complements the citrus perfectly.

This cake is a delightful alternative to traditional butter-based recipes, offering a lighter yet satisfying experience. The olive oil creates a tender crumb, resulting in a cake that feels luxurious on the palate. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweetness and tanginess, making it an indulgent treat that is sure to impress.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a celebration, enjoying a family gathering, or simply treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this cake fits the bill. Its vibrant color and appealing presentation make it a visually stunning centerpiece for any dessert table. Paired with a cup of coffee or tea, it becomes the perfect ending to a meal or a delightful afternoon snack.

The versatility of the Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake means it can be dressed up or down according to the occasion. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert or serve it plain for a simpler, more rustic experience. Regardless of how you choose to enjoy it, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake, it’s essential to use the freshest blood oranges you can find. Their vibrant juice and zest are the stars of this recipe, so don’t hesitate to select the ripest ones. Additionally, using high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the overall flavor and bring out the cake's unique characteristics.

Measuring your ingredients accurately is also crucial for a perfect bake. Consider using a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to the flour. Lastly, allow the cake to cool completely before drizzling the glaze on top, as this will ensure that the glaze sets beautifully and doesn’t run off.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup olive oil
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup blood orange juice
Zest of 2 blood oranges
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons blood orange juice

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

Instructions

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 olive oil, granulated sugar, and eggs until well combined. Stir in the blood orange juice and zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

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

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and blood orange juice until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before slicing.

Serve the cake with fresh blood orange slices or whipped cream for an extra treat!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, making it a convenient treat to keep on hand for unexpected guests or late-night cravings. To maintain its freshness, simply cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. If you want to prolong its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.

When it comes to serving, this cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further with toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries. A dusting of powdered sugar also adds a touch of elegance, making it suitable for special occasions.

Variations to Try

While the classic version of the Capricorn Blood Orange Olive Oil Cake is truly delicious, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste. For a more indulgent twist, consider adding dark chocolate chips to the batter, which will complement the citrus beautifully. Alternatively, you can incorporate spices like cardamom or cinnamon for an aromatic touch.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend can work well. Just be sure to check the blend for any additional binding agents that might be needed, as this can affect the cake's texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different and less intense.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

→ Is this cake suitable for vegans?

No, this recipe contains eggs. However, you can experiment with egg substitutes to make it vegan.