There is something truly magical about a bright, citrusy treat that bursts with flavor in every bite, and that is exactly why the Blood Orange Loaf with Poppy Seeds Recipe has won my heart. This delightful loaf combines the zesty punch of blood oranges with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds, creating a stunning balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty textures. Whether you are baking for a cozy brunch or an afternoon tea, this loaf impresses with its beautiful color, irresistible aroma, and moist crumb. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to dessert for any special occasion or simply a way to brighten up your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the secret to perfecting this Blood Orange Loaf with Poppy Seeds Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the fragrant zest that uplifts the batter, to the creamy butter which lends softness, and the marzipan adding a subtle almond sweetness. These wholesome ingredients come together effortlessly to create a loaf that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
- 1⅗ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender loaf with light crumb.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Ensures your loaf rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds: Add delightful pops of texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
- 8½ tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf just right without overpowering the citrus notes.
- Zest of 2 blood oranges: Bursts with aromatic oils and vibrant citrus character.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to the loaf’s tender structure.
- 2¾ ounces marzipan, grated: Adds a mild almond flavor and lovely texture contrast.
- ½ cup blood orange juice: Infuses the loaf with juicy, slightly tart citrus flavor.
- ¼ cup whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist for an even crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Used for a glossy, sweet glaze that complements the loaf.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons blood orange juice: Mixed into the glaze for a fresh citrus finish.
How to Make Blood Orange Loaf with Poppy Seeds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and get your loaf pan ready by greasing it thoroughly and lining it with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also ensures your beautiful loaf comes out with perfect edges.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. This dry mix is the base that will give your loaf the ideal texture and those lovely little crunches that poppy seeds bring.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Now grab a large bowl and beat your softened butter with granulated sugar and the fragrant zest of blood oranges until the mixture is light and fluffy—usually around three minutes. This step is key for a tender crumb and a loaf packed with citrus aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This technique helps create a smooth, stable batter that will rise evenly and remain moist.
Step 5: Add Marzipan
Fold in the grated marzipan gently so it’s evenly distributed. These small, chewy pockets of almond flavor add a wonderful surprise in each slice.
Step 6: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine blood orange juice, whole milk, and vanilla extract. This fragrant liquid mix enhances the citrus notes while keeping the loaf tender.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three alternating parts with the wet mixture—starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Overmixing can make the loaf dense, so take care here.
Step 8: Fill Pan and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the loaf has a golden crust that smells simply divine.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps it set perfectly and makes glazing easier.
Step 10: Prepare the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar and the remaining blood orange juice until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. Drizzle generously over the cooled loaf and allow it to set for a glossy, citrusy finish that contrasts beautifully with the dense, soft crumb inside.
How to Serve Blood Orange Loaf with Poppy Seeds Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra poppy seeds on top of the glaze or a few thin slices of fresh blood orange make perfect garnishes for an elegant presentation. Fresh mint leaves also add a lovely pop of green and freshness.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a bright, fruity tea. For a decadent brunch, serve alongside whipped cream or mascarpone cheese, which complements the orange and almond flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices of this Blood Orange Loaf with a dollop of citrus-infused yogurt or layering it into a trifle with fresh berries and cream. You can even toast slices lightly and spread with honey butter for an unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It stays wonderfully moist and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
This loaf freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a warm oven or toaster oven for about 5 minutes to bring back that freshly baked feeling. Avoid microwaving as it can sometimes dry out the loaf.
FAQs
Can I substitute the marzipan with something else?
Yes, if marzipan isn’t readily available, you can use almond paste or finely chopped almonds for a similar texture and flavor, though marzipan offers the best melt-in-your-mouth quality.
What can I use if I don’t have blood oranges?
Regular oranges or a combination of orange and lemon juice can be substituted, but keep in mind the distinctive deep color and flavor of blood oranges is a key part of this recipe’s charm.
Are poppy seeds necessary?
While poppy seeds add delightful texture and a subtle nutty note, you can omit them if you prefer or have allergies; just expect a slightly different mouthfeel.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
Use a toothpick or cake tester; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The loaf should also spring back slightly when gently pressed on top.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both stunning and full of bright, fresh flavor, the Blood Orange Loaf with Poppy Seeds Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s easy to make, filled with vibrant citrus notes, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. So go ahead, bring some sunshine to your baking adventures and enjoy every bite!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Blood Orange Loaf with Poppy Seeds is a bright and flavorful citrus cake featuring zesty blood orange, crunchy poppy seeds, and a moist texture enhanced by grated marzipan. Topped with a tangy blood orange glaze, it’s perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1⅗ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Wet Ingredients
- 8½ tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Zest of 2 blood oranges
- 2 large eggs
- 2¾ ounces marzipan, grated
- ½ cup blood orange juice
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons blood orange juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and blood orange zest together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.
- Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed before adding the next to create a smooth, velvety batter.
- Add Marzipan: Gently fold the grated marzipan into the butter and sugar mixture until it is evenly distributed, adding a subtle almond sweetness and moist texture.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the blood orange juice, whole milk, and vanilla extract. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three alternating additions with the blood orange mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently and just until combined to avoid overmixing and tiring the batter.
- Fill Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and blood orange juice until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cake and let it set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender and light.
- Use fresh blood oranges for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- If blood oranges are unavailable, substitute with regular oranges or a mix of orange and red grapefruit juice.
