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Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

Avatar photoBySusan Miller
Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 139 reviews
Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

There’s something truly magical about this Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe—a moist, fragrant cake bursting with the bright, sunny flavor of fresh clementines, perfectly paired with a silky citrus glaze that melts in your mouth. If you’re a fan of desserts that are fresh, light, and irresistibly zesty, this cake will become your new go-to treat for any occasion.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Bright and refreshing flavor: The natural sweetness and tang of clementines make this cake a true citrus celebration.
Simple ingredients, big impact: With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh fruit, you get an impressive, bakery-quality cake.
Moist and tender texture: The olive oil keeps the cake incredibly soft and gives it a subtle richness.
Versatile dessert option: Whether for brunch, tea time, or a festive gathering, this cake fits any mood or moment.

The image shows a round orange cake on a white plate with a thick layer of white icing covering the top and sides. The cake has one slice being lifted by a wooden spatula, revealing a moist, crumbly orange-yellow interior. On top of the cake and each slice, there are thin orange slices arranged in a circle. The background has green leaves and whole oranges placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze, citrus cake recipe, easy citrus cake, fresh fruit cake, moist citrus dessert

Ingredients & Substitutions

This Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a cake bursting with vibrant flavor and delightful texture. Each element plays a crucial part, from the zesty clementines to the smooth olive oil.

Flat lay of whole fresh clementines, peeled clementine slices arranged in a fan shape, granulated sugar crystals sparkling in a small pile, smooth olive oil glistening in a shallow pool, creamy white powdered sugar dusted lightly beside clementine juice droplets, a dollop of plain yogurt with a soft texture, and large fresh eggs with warm brown shells placed naturally, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze, citrus cake recipe, easy citrus cake, fresh fruit cake, moist citrus dessert
  • All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb—feel free to use a gluten-free blend if needed.
  • Baking soda & baking powder: Help the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
  • Fresh clementines: These bright fruits bring the distinctive citrus flavor and moisture; make sure to remove any seeds!
  • Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and keeps the cake beautifully moist.
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens just right without overpowering the natural clementine flavor.
  • Plain yogurt for the glaze: Adds a touch of creaminess and helps the citrus glaze set just perfectly.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Get your 9-inch springform pan ready by lightly spraying it with non-stick spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper—this little prep makes the cake come out effortlessly. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined; this ensures even rising and a tender crumb throughout.

Step 2: Blend the Clementines into a Flavorful Paste

This is where the magic happens! Blend four whole clementines along with vanilla extract until you get a smooth, vibrant paste. This paste is the key to infusing your cake with authentic citrus brilliance, and it’s what makes this Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe so uniquely delicious.

Step 3: Cream Eggs and Sugar, Then Add Olive Oil and Clementine Paste

In a mixing bowl, beat together eggs and sugar until they’re light and fluffy—this step incorporates air, making the cake wonderfully light. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil as you continue beating to create a silky batter. Then, mix in your citrus paste until it’s fully incorporated, filling your kitchen with that fresh, zesty aroma.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients and Bake

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix, which can toughen the cake. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 20 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible—get ready!

Step 5: Cool the Cake and Prepare the Citrus Glaze

Let the cake cool slightly in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—this step is essential so the glaze sets perfectly. Meanwhile, whisk together sifted powdered sugar, fresh clementine juice, and a dollop of plain yogurt to create a luscious citrus glaze that perfectly complements the cake’s bright flavors.

Step 6: Assemble and Decorate Your Cake

Carefully remove the springform pan sides, then spread the citrus glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Finish it off with fresh clementine slices for a stunning, fresh garnish that amps up the visual appeal and adds a juicy pop to every bite.

How to Serve Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

The image shows a round orange cake on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has two main visible layers: a smooth off-white frosting layer covering the cake and slices of bright orange citrus fruit arranged in a neat circle around the edge. The center of the cake is plain frosting with small bits of orange zest scattered softly on top. Around the cake are whole and peeled oranges, a glass of orange juice, some green leaves, and a white bowl with three forks. The colors are bright, dominated by the orange fruit and white elements, creating a fresh and inviting look photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze, citrus cake recipe, easy citrus cake, fresh fruit cake, moist citrus dessert

Garnishes

The bright orange slices not only enhance the cake’s charm but also add an extra burst of juicy citrus. A sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or a few fresh mint leaves also work beautifully to add texture and color with a sophisticated twist.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a light citrusy cocktail to elevate the fresh flavors. For a heartier menu, serve alongside a lightly dressed green salad or a platter of mild cheeses for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of extra glaze. Present the cake on a rustic wooden board or a bright platter to highlight its sunny color, and add edible flowers for an elegant, show-stopping display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture and freshness. It should stay delicious for up to four days, making it easy to enjoy a slice whenever the mood strikes.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully—wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving and refresh with glaze or fresh clementines for best results.

Reheating

If you prefer the cake slightly warm, reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or place in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5–7 minutes. This warms the cake without drying it out, bringing back the fresh baked aroma.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other citrus fruits in this Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe?

    Absolutely! While clementines offer a sweet and mild flavor, you can substitute oranges, mandarins, or even tangerines for a slightly different citrus profile. Just make sure they are seedless or remove any seeds before blending.

  2. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

    The best indicator is a golden brown color on top along with a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking around 20 minutes.

  3. Can I make this cake vegan?

    Yes, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers and use plant-based yogurt and oil to keep the texture moist and delicious, though the flavor may differ slightly from the original recipe.

  4. Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

    A springform pan is ideal because it allows you to remove the sides easily without damaging the cake’s shape, especially with the glaze on top. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular cake pan but be sure to line it well with parchment for easy removal.

Final Thoughts

This Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe is a bright, luscious way to bring a little sunshine to your table. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just a special treat for yourself, it’s sure to delight with each tender, citrus-kissed bite. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for clementines a whole lot more often!

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Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

Clementine Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 139 reviews
  • Author: Susan
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

This moist and flavorful Clementine Cake combines the bright citrusy taste of whole blended clementines with a light olive oil base, creating a tender cake perfect for any occasion. Topped with a sweet and tangy clementine glaze and garnished with fresh clementine slices, this cake offers a refreshing twist on traditional citrus desserts.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 4 whole clementines (11 ounces)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup olive oil

For the Glaze

  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2–3 tablespoons clementine juice
  • 1–2 tablespoons plain yogurt

Garnishes

  • Clementine slices

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray the sides and bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick baking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper. Place the pan on a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any leaks.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Blend Clementines: Using a blender or food processor, puree the whole clementines and vanilla extract until a smooth paste forms. Set this mixture aside for later use.
  4. Cream Eggs and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes a few minutes to incorporate air for a tender cake.
  5. Add Olive Oil and Clementine Paste: Slowly pour in the olive oil while continuing to beat the mixture for an additional 3 minutes. Then, fold in the clementine paste and mix until evenly incorporated.
  6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
  7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool Cake: Let the cake cool on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes until the edges start to pull away from the pan. Then transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely for about one hour.
  9. Prepare Glaze: In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of clementine juice. Add 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt and whisk well. If the glaze is too thick, add more juice or yogurt as needed to reach a slightly thick yet pourable consistency.
  10. Assemble and Decorate: Run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen the cake, then remove the pan sides. Using an offset spatula, gently loosen the cake from the bottom and peel off the parchment paper. Place the cake on a serving platter, pour the glaze evenly over the top, and decorate with fresh clementine slices.

Notes

  • Ensure the clementines used have no seeds, or remove any seeds before blending to avoid bitterness and unpleasant texture.
  • The glaze will feel very thick at first but will thin out as you whisk in the citrus juice and yogurt — it should be slightly thick to properly adhere to the cake.
  • Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and soaking into the cake unevenly.
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