Citrus Bliss: Blood Orange Poppyseed Loaf with Yogurt, Pistachios, and a Luscious Blood Orange Glaze

Embrace the vibrant flavors of winter with this Citrus Bliss: Blood Orange Poppyseed Loaf, a delightful creation that combines the tangy sweetness of blood oranges with the nutty crunch of pistachios. This exquisite loaf is moistened with Greek yogurt and infused with the zest and juice of blood oranges, offering a bright citrus flavor that perfectly complements the subtle almond notes. Topped with a glossy blood orange glaze and garnished with additional pistachios and blood orange slices, this loaf is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it a perfect treat from winter through to spring.

Why You’ll Love This:

Blood oranges, with their deep red hue and unique flavor, are the star of this loaf, offering a refreshing twist on traditional citrus bakes. The addition of Greek yogurt ensures the loaf remains incredibly moist, while the almond flour adds a delicate texture and richness. Poppyseeds provide a lovely crunch, and the pistachios not only add a pop of color but also a wonderful contrast in texture. The blood orange glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, with its sweet and tangy flavor elevating this loaf to new heights. This recipe is a celebration of seasonal produce, combining favorite ingredients in a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Perfect Occasion:

This Blood Orange Poppyseed Loaf is ideal for a variety of occasions, from a sophisticated afternoon tea to a cozy weekend breakfast. It’s also perfect as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family, especially those who appreciate the finer nuances of seasonal baking. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy a slice as a luxurious personal indulgence; either way, this loaf is sure to impress.

Decoration Tips:

For a stunning presentation, drizzle the glaze generously over the loaf, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Garnish with thinly sliced blood orange rounds and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios to enhance its visual appeal. The vibrant colors of the blood orange against the pale crumb of the loaf make it a beautiful centerpiece for any table. Serve each slice on individual plates with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh citrus fruits for an extra special touch.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• Zest of 2 blood oranges
• 1/2 cup blood orange juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1 1/4 cups gluten-free flour (or regular flour)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp poppyseeds
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (plus extra for garnish)

For the Glaze:

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp blood orange zest
• 2-3 tbsp blood orange juice
• A splash of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients, including poppyseeds, and fold in the pistachios.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. For the glaze, mix all ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf and garnish with blood orange slices and additional pistachios.

Enjoy this Citrus Bliss: Blood Orange Poppyseed Loaf, a delightful blend of flavors and textures that celebrates the seasonal beauty of blood oranges, enhanced with the richness of yogurt and pistachios, and crowned with a vibrant glaze.