Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Blood Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that captures the vibrant flavors of citrus, making it perfect for any occasion. This moist and flavorful cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. With its rich blood orange zest and juice, it offers a unique twist on traditional loaf cakes, ensuring that each slice is bursting with freshness. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet snack, this Blood Orange Loaf Cake will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of blood orange zest and juice creates a refreshing taste that elevates this loaf cake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, afternoon tea, or just because, this cake fits right in.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easily accessible ingredients, you can whip up this cake without any hassle.
• Moist Texture: The addition of cream and syrup keeps the cake moist and delectable.
• Versatile Topping Options: Top it with a glaze or chocolate namelaka for an elegant finish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (2lb)
• Stand mixer or electric hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps maintain the cake’s shape.
• Stand mixer or electric hand whisk: These tools make it easy to achieve the desired batter consistency without much effort.

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 (to taste)
• Blood Orange Juice (to taste)

For the Cream Topping

• 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

Pre-heat the oven to 160C/320F (Non-fan Assisted). Lightly grease a 2lb loaf tin, then coat the inside with flour before tipping out any excess.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Mix in Oil

Whisk in the neutral oil just until you have a smooth batter.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the mixture into the loaf tin. Pipe a thin line of soft butter down the center of the batter. Bake for around 65-75 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare Syrup While Baking

While your cake bakes, boil together syrup ingredients until sugar has dissolved. Set aside once ready.

Step 7: Soak Cake

After baking, remove from tin and poke holes in it with a skewer. Soak with syrup then wrap tightly in cling film and chill overnight to improve texture.

Step 8: Optional Chocolate Cream

In a small bowl, stir together powdered vegan gelatin and cold water; let sit for five minutes.
1. In a saucepan over gentle heat, add milk and glucose to dissolve glucose.
2. Stir through bloomed gelatin after removing from heat.
3. Pour over melted chocolate in three additions while stirring vigorously until smooth.
4. Blend in cold cream until combined; cover surface with clingfilm and refrigerate overnight.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

Pre-heat oven again to 160C/320F for glazing.
1. Sift icing sugar into a bowl.
2. Whisk in enough lemon juice for thick glue-like consistency—start with half lemon juice.
3. Add a squeeze of fresh blood orange juice for color; adjust glaze consistency as needed.

Step 10: Glaze Cake

Remove cake from fridge, paint glaze all over outside, then place on baking tray in oven for 1-2 minutes to set glaze before allowing it to reach room temperature before serving.

Enjoy 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 prefer it plain, dressed up with toppings, or alongside other dishes, there are many options to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair your loaf cake with a medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast and added sweetness.

Drizzled with Citrus Glaze

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling a homemade citrus glaze over the top. The tanginess complements the blood orange beautifully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly whipped cream adds a luscious texture. You can sweeten it slightly for an indulgent touch that balances the cake’s flavors.

Served Warm

• Enjoying the cake warm from the oven intensifies its citrus aroma and flavors. A quick 1-2 minute warm-up in the oven can make a big difference!

Alongside Tea or Coffee

• Blood Orange Loaf Cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The warmth of your beverage enhances the cake’s flavors, making for a cozy snack or dessert.

How to Perfect Blood Orange Loaf Cake

To achieve the perfect Blood Orange Loaf Cake, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Using precise measurements ensures consistent results and helps create the perfect loaf every time.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and cream to reach room temperature before mixing. This promotes better emulsification and results in a lighter batter.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine dry and wet ingredients to avoid developing too much gluten, which can make the cake dense rather than fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Use a skewer to test if the cake is done. It should come out clean; this prevents undercooking or overbaking.
• Cool properly: Allow your loaf to cool in the tin briefly before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent sogginess while maintaining its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Blood Orange Loaf Cake

Blood Orange Loaf Cake can be complemented by several side dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds freshness that pairs well with citrus notes.
2. Greek Yogurt
   Creamy Greek yogurt offers a tangy contrast that balances sweetness while adding protein for a more filling snack.
3. Coconut Sorbet
   This light and refreshing dessert provides a tropical flair that works beautifully alongside the blood orange flavor.
4. Lemon Curd
   A dollop of lemon curd adds an extra zing of tartness that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the loaf cake.
5. Chia Seed Pudding
   A nutritious option that brings texture and creaminess without overwhelming flavors, making it an ideal pairing.
6. Herbal Tea Infusion
   A warm cup of herbal tea like chamomile or mint complements the citrus notes in your cake while providing relaxation benefits.
7. Granola Parfait
   Layering granola with yogurt and fresh fruit creates an artistic presentation that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing.
8. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti offers an enjoyable texture contrast and adds nutty flavors that enhance overall enjoyment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making a Blood Orange Loaf Cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can lead to an uneven texture or taste. Always use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Skipping the zesting step: Blood orange zest adds essential flavor. Make sure to include it in your mix for a deliciously fragrant cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and airy texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
• Not chilling the cake: Chilling helps improve the texture of your loaf cake. Don’t skip this step if you want that perfect consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers for easy serving.

Freezing Blood Orange Loaf Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Blood Orange Loaf Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 160C (320F) and heat individual slices wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat slices on a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Blood Orange Loaf Cake:

Can I substitute other citrus fruits?

Yes, you can use oranges, lemons, or grapefruits instead of blood oranges. Just adjust the zest and juice accordingly.

How do I know when my Blood Orange Loaf Cake is done?

A skewer inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular cake flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How should I serve my Blood Orange Loaf Cake?

This loaf cake is delightful on its own but can also be served with whipped cream or a citrus glaze for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Blood Orange Loaf Cake is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding nuts or using different citrus fruits. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe at home!