Olive Oil Cake

Olive Oil Cake is a moist, tender dessert that pairs the richness of olive oil with the delicate sweetness of citrus, creating a beautifully balanced cake. This simple yet sophisticated dessert is an ideal choice for those looking for a lighter, more savory-sweet alternative to traditional cakes. With a subtle fruity flavor from the olive oil, along with hints of lemon or orange zest, Olive Oil Cake offers a refreshing and elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon tea to a festive dinner party.

The base of Olive Oil Cake is made with high-quality olive oil, which replaces the butter typically used in cakes. This gives the cake a slightly savory flavor, which is complemented by the sweetness of sugar and the citrus zest. The olive oil also helps keep the cake moist, resulting in a light, airy crumb that’s rich without being overly heavy. The addition of eggs, flour, and a little baking powder creates the structure for the cake, while a pinch of salt and vanilla enhance the overall flavor.

Citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, brings a burst of freshness to the cake, brightening the flavors and adding a touch of aromatic complexity. For extra depth, you can incorporate a small amount of almond meal or ground almonds, which adds a subtle nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the olive oil. The result is a cake that’s not overly sweet, with a smooth texture and a delightful balance of fruity, floral, and earthy flavors.

Olive Oil Cake is incredibly versatile and can be served on its own or paired with a variety of toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries make perfect accompaniments, while a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of yogurt can add an extra layer of creaminess. For a more indulgent treat, you can also glaze the cake with a simple syrup infused with herbs like rosemary for a unique twist.

This cake is perfect for anyone who enjoys more subtle, complex desserts. It’s a great choice for those following a Mediterranean diet, as olive oil is the star ingredient, offering healthy fats along with a distinctive flavor. Whether you’re baking it for a special event or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this perfect cake is a timeless dessert that’s sure to impress.

Olive Oil Cake

3.64 from 36 votes

This Olive Oil Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. The olive oil adds a unique, rich taste and keeps the cake exceptionally tender.

Servings 8 people

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

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Ingredients

  

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• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 3 eggs large
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest freshly grated

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In another large bowl, beat the sugar and olive oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 45mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Calories: 350kcal

Meal Type: Dessert

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: cake, dessert, olive oil

Cooking Method: Baked

Diet: Dairy-free

Time: >45 Min

Level: Easy

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