Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking to brighten up your dessert rotation with something refreshingly sweet and utterly irresistible, the Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. This cake bursts with the natural zing of clementines, creating a moist, tender crumb topped with a luscious glaze that’s bursting with citrusy goodness!

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Bright and refreshing flavor: This cake captures the vibrant essence of clementines, making every bite a citrusy delight.
Moist and tender texture: Thanks to whole blended clementines and olive oil, the cake stays beautifully soft and satisfies every time.
Simple, wholesome ingredients: With pantry staples and fresh fruit, it’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Beautiful presentation: The glossy citrus glaze and fresh clementine slices add that wow factor perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients & Substitutions

The magic of this Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe lies within its simple yet carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role — from the flour that provides structure, to the fresh clementines that infuse every bite with juicy brightness, and the olive oil which keeps it moist and tender. The glaze, made from powdered sugar and clementine juice, adds a decadent, tangy finish that’s just perfect.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, lending structure without heaviness.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Work together to give the cake a light, airy rise.
• Clementines: Whole and blended for maximum citrus flavor – be sure they’re seedless or remove seeds before blending.
• Olive oil: Keeps the crumb moist and tender with a subtle fruity note; you can substitute light vegetable oil if preferred.
• Powdered sugar and yogurt (for the glaze): Create a smooth, tangy glaze that complements the bright citrus flavor without overwhelming it.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the citrus notes, balancing the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Dry Ingredients

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick baking spray and parchment paper lining the base. This helps ensure the cake releases effortlessly. Next, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a bowl—this combination guarantees your cake will rise perfectly and have the best texture.

Step 2: Blend the Clementines

Now, the star of the show: the clementines! Blend four whole clementines with the vanilla extract until you get a smooth, vibrant paste. This not only imparts a natural citrus flavor but also adds moisture, ensuring your cake stays soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Using a hand mixer, beat two room-temperature eggs and granulated sugar together until fluffy and pale—this aerates the batter for a light crumb. Slowly pour in the olive oil while mixing continuously, producing a velvety batter. Then, fold in your fresh clementine paste, letting all those bright flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gently add your flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here; you want a tender cake, not a dense one! Pour this luscious batter straight into your prepared springform pan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with the most incredible citrus aroma—almost too good to be true! Let the cake cool on a baking tray until the edges pull away from the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare the Citrus Glaze

Sift powdered sugar into a bowl, then whisk in fresh clementine juice and plain yogurt. You want a glaze thick enough to coat the cake but still pourable, so adjust the liquid quantities as needed. This tangy glaze perfectly complements the sweet and slightly floral cake beneath.

Step 7: Assemble and Garnish

Carefully remove the cake from the springform pan, gently loosening the edges and sliding it onto a beautiful serving platter. Pour the glaze evenly over the top, letting it drizzle naturally down the sides. Finally, adorn the cake with fresh clementine slices for a stunning, fresh finish that’s as inviting as it is delicious.

How to Serve Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh clementine slices are the perfect garnish, adding a pop of color and extra juiciness that highlight the citrus theme. A sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also add texture and a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a refreshing drink alongside, a cup of green tea or sparkling citrus-infused water makes the perfect natural companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a drizzle of extra glaze on the plate and a few mint leaves for color contrast. For a party, turn it into mini cake rounds or use cupcake liners for single servings adorned with candied citrus peel for a stunning look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once glazed, keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve its moistness and flavor. If your kitchen is warm, storing it in the fridge is fine but bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this cake, do so before glazing it. Wrap the fully cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Reheating

This cake is delightful at room temperature, but if you prefer, warm slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enhance its softness and aroma without melting the glaze.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe — a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and tender all rolled into one. Whether you’re baking for a festive brunch or a cozy afternoon tea, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab your clementines and dive in, because this cake is an absolute joy to make and even more joyful to eat!

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