You’re at the grocery store, and you see a bag labeled “Cara Cara Oranges.” They look exactly like regular oranges on the outside. But cut one open, and you’re in for a surprise: the inside is a beautiful, vibrant pink!
Is it a grapefruit? Is it genetically modified? And most importantly, what do Cara Cara oranges taste like?
In this guide, we’ll reveal why this unique citrus variety is taking over the winter season. From its surprising berry-like flavor to its impressive nutrition profile (hello, lycopene!), here is everything you need to know about the Cara Cara.
Table of Contents
What Is a Cara Cara Orange? (The Origin Story)
First things first: Are Cara Cara oranges genetically modified? The answer is NO.
The Cara Cara is a natural mutation of the Washington Navel orange. It was discovered by chance in 1976 at the “Hacienda Cara Cara” in Venezuela (hence the name). It’s 100% natural, non-GMO, and absolutely delicious.
Curious about where these oranges come from? Discover the secret mystery behind the famous ‘belly button’ in our Navel Orange Guide.
What Do Cara Cara Oranges Taste Like?
This is where they shine.
- Sweetness: They are significantly sweeter than regular Navel oranges.
- Acidity: They have lower acidity, meaning they don’t have that sharp “tang” or burn.
- Flavor Profile: The most unique part is their subtle hint of red berries (like cranberry, cherry, or rose) mixed with the citrus flavor.
Cara Cara vs. Navel vs. Grapefruit: What’s the Difference?
Because of the pink color, many people get confused. Let’s clear it up.
Cara Cara vs. Navel Orange
- Outside: They look almost identical (orange skin).
- Inside: Navels are orange; Cara Caras are pink/salmon.
- Taste: Cara Caras are sweeter and less acidic than standard Navels.
Cara Cara Orange vs. Grapefruit
- The Confusion: Both are pink inside.
- The Taste: This is the big difference! Grapefruit is bitter and sour. Cara Cara is purely sweet with zero bitterness.
- Is a Cara Cara orange a grapefruit? No! It is a type of navel orange.
Cara Cara Orange Nutrition & Benefits
Why are they pink? The secret is lycopene. Unlike other oranges, Cara Caras contain Lycopene, the same powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes and watermelons.
- Immunity: One medium fruit provides 100% of your daily Vitamin C.
- Heart Health: Lycopene is linked to heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Calories: A medium Cara Cara orange has only about 80 calories, making it a perfect guilt-free snack.
Learn more about the benefits of lycopene from this PubMed study—make sure to use the specific link provided later.
When Are Cara Cara Oranges in Season?
If you want to try them, you have to watch the calendar. They are a winter specialty.
- Season: December to April.
- Peak Flavor: January and February are the absolute best months to buy them.
Want to know about other citrus varieties? Check our full Orange Season Guide (Sumo, Blood & Navel).
How to Eat & Store Them
- Snacking: Because they are seedless and easy to peel, they are the ultimate snack for kids and adults.
- Juicing: Their juice is sweet, lower in acid, and has a beautiful pink hue—perfect for mimosas or morning juice.
- Storage: Keep them in the fridge crisper drawer to keep them juicy for up to 2-3 weeks.
Final Bite of Wisdom
If you see Cara Cara oranges at your local market, grab a bag immediately! Their short season, incredible berry-like sweetness, and extra antioxidant boost make them superior to the average orange.
