Blood Orange Pound Cake

The Blood Orange Pound Cake is a vibrant and zesty twist on a classic favorite. Growing up, my family would often gather around the kitchen as delicious aromas filled the air. The memory of my grandmother whipping up her famous pound cake still lingers, and she always had a way of making every occasion special. This recipe captures that essence, but with the unique, refreshing flavor of blood orange that adds a delightful touch. I remember the first time I tried blood oranges; their sweet-tart profile was unlike anything I’d tasted before. As I stood in the kitchen mixing the ingredients, I felt a surge of nostalgia and excitement. The bright zest and fresh juice not only elevate the cake’s flavor but also create a stunning visual presentation.

Blood Orange Pound Cake Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients can make all the difference in your baking experience. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect Blood Orange Pound Cake. The key players are the all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and, of course, the fresh blood oranges. Together, they combine to create a moist, flavorful cake that is sure to impress.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake, providing structure and texture.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances the flavors of the cake.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a light and fluffy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake beautifully.
• Zest from 1 blood orange, about 1 teaspoon: Infuses the cake with bright, fresh citrus flavor.
• 4 large eggs, room temperature: Binds the ingredients together and gives the cake its structure.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Provides moisture and richness.
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar, sifted: Used for the glaze, adding sweetness and a beautiful finish.
• 2 tablespoons fresh blood orange juice: Enhances the glaze with vibrant citrus flavor.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Helps adjust the consistency of the glaze.
• 1 blood orange, sliced, as garnish: For a stunning presentation.

Making This Blood Orange Pound Cake

Making the Blood Orange Pound Cake is a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this zesty cake that will surely impress everyone. Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll find the process to be as rewarding as the final product.

1. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure an even bake. This is crucial for achieving that perfect fluffy texture.
2. Grease a 6-cup bundt pan generously with cooking spray. This will help the cake release easily once it’s baked.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside as it will add structure to your cake.
4. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the unsalted butter, white granulated sugar, and blood orange zest. Beat this mixture on medium speed for about 5 minutes. It should become pale in color and fluffy.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is essential for a well-mixed batter.
6. Increase the mixer speed to high and beat the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until it appears light and fluffy. This aeration is vital.
7. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. This will add a lovely depth of flavor.
8. Now, you’ll fold the flour mixture into the butter mixture. Alternate adding the flour with the whole milk, starting and finishing with the flour. This method prevents the batter from becoming too tough.
9. Once fully combined, pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread for uniform baking.
10. Carefully transfer the bundt pan to the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
11. After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then invert it onto a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before glazing.
12. While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, blood orange juice, and milk in a bowl. Adjust the consistency with more juice if necessary; it should be pourable but not too thin.
13. Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for an elegant finish. Garnish with blood orange slices for a beautiful presentation.

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some useful tips to enhance your baking experience with the Blood Orange Pound Cake. These will help you make the best out of your ingredients and ensure success!

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to two months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Pairing: Enjoy this cake with a cup of tea or coffee; it complements both beautifully.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or lemon for a different flavor.
• Garnish options: Consider adding fresh berries or whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.

What Goes Well With This Blood Orange Pound Cake

When serving the Blood Orange Pound Cake, there are a variety of options that can enhance your experience. Here are some delightful pairings:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a creamy contrast to the zesty cake.
• Fresh Berries: Serve alongside strawberries or raspberries to add a fruity touch that balances the citrus.
• Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or coffee pairs perfectly with the cake, making it an ideal afternoon snack.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream can complement the cake beautifully.
• Brunch Occasion: This cake is perfect for brunch gatherings, adding a sweet touch to your spread.
• Spring and Summer Events: Its refreshing flavor makes it a great option for seasonal celebrations like Easter or summer picnics.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Blood Orange Pound Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that combines the classic flavor of pound cake with the refreshing zest of blood oranges. Its moist texture and beautiful presentation make it perfect for any gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with friends and family. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home just as it has in mine!

Blood Orange Pound Cake

The ultimate dessert for citrus lovers! Blood Orange Pound Cake is moist, flavorful, and beautifully glazed, making it a perfect treat for any gathering. With its vibrant color and refreshing taste, this cake will steal the spotlight at your next event!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon blood orange zest zest from 1 blood orange
• 4 large eggs room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar sifted
• 2 tablespoons fresh blood orange juice
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 blood orange sliced, as garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure an even bake. This is crucial for achieving that perfect fluffy texture.
• Grease a 6-cup bundt pan generously with cooking spray. This will help the cake release easily once it’s baked.
• In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside as it will add structure to your cake.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the unsalted butter, white granulated sugar, and blood orange zest. Beat this mixture on medium speed for about 5 minutes. It should become pale in color and fluffy.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is essential for a well-mixed batter.
• Increase the mixer speed to high and beat the mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until it appears light and fluffy. This aeration is vital.
• Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. This will add a lovely depth of flavor.
• Now, you’ll fold the flour mixture into the butter mixture. Alternate adding the flour with the whole milk, starting and finishing with the flour. This method prevents the batter from becoming too tough.
• Once fully combined, pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread for uniform baking.
• Carefully transfer the bundt pan to the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
• After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then invert it onto a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before glazing.
• While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, blood orange juice, and milk in a bowl. Adjust the consistency with more juice if necessary; it should be pourable but not too thin.
• Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for an elegant finish. Garnish with blood orange slices for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cake for up to two months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Tip 3: Enjoy this cake with a cup of tea or coffee; it complements both beautifully.
• Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or lemon for a different flavor.
• Tip 5: Consider adding fresh berries or whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Keyword Blood Orange Cake, Citrus Dessert, easy cake recipe, Pound Cake Recipe

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.