Deliciously Simple Olive Oil Cake Recipe You Need to Try

Olive oil cake is one of those desserts that surprises you with its simplicity and rich flavor. Unlike traditional butter-based cakes, this cake uses olive oil to create a moist, tender crumb with a subtle fruity note. If you’ve never tried baking with olive oil, this recipe will change your mind. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a cake that’s perfect for any occasion—from afternoon tea to a light dessert after dinner.

Olive oil cake stands out because it balances healthful ingredients with indulgent taste. It’s not overly sweet, making it a great choice for those who prefer desserts that aren’t cloying. Plus, the olive oil adds a unique depth that pairs beautifully with citrus or nuts. This post will guide you through the recipe, share tips for success, and suggest variations to make the cake your own.

Why Choose Olive Oil Cake?

Olive oil cake offers several advantages over traditional cakes:

• Moist texture: Olive oil keeps the cake moist longer than butter.

• Rich flavor: The fruity, slightly peppery notes of good-quality olive oil add complexity.

• Simple ingredients: You don’t need fancy or hard-to-find items.

• Healthier fat: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats, which are better for heart health compared to saturated fats in butter.

• Versatility: You can add citrus zest, nuts, or spices to customize the flavor.

  
  

This cake is a great way to introduce olive oil into your baking routine. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but takes little effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a straightforward list of ingredients for a classic olive oil cake:

• 1 ½ cups flour 00

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 3 large organic eggs

• ¾ cup extra virgin mild olive oil

• ¾ cup whole milk or buttermilk

• Zest of 1 lemon or orange

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  
  

These ingredients come together easily and create a balanced cake. The citrus zest brightens the flavor, while the vanilla adds warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your olive oil cake:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

   
   

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

   
   

3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the olive oil, milk, vanilla extract, and citrus zest. Mix well.

   
   

4. Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

   
   

5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

   
   

6. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

   
   

Tips for the Best Olive Oil Cake

• Use good olive oil: The flavor of the oil matters. Choose a fruity, mild extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.

• Don’t skip the citrus zest: It adds brightness and balances the richness of the oil.

• Room temperature ingredients: Eggs and milk at room temperature mix better and help the cake rise evenly.

• Don’t overmix: Stir until ingredients are just combined to avoid a dense cake.

• Check doneness early: Ovens vary, so start checking the cake at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.

  
  
  
  

Variations to Try

Once you master the basic olive oil cake, experiment with these ideas:

• Add nuts: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch.

• Spices: Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.

• Fruit: Mix in fresh berries or dried fruit for extra texture.

• Herbs: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.

  
  

These variations keep the cake interesting and allow you to tailor it to your taste or the season.

Serving Suggestions

Olive oil cake is versatile when it comes to serving:

• Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.

• Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream.

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.

• Enjoy it plain with a cup of tea or coffee for a light snack.

  
  

Its moist texture and subtle flavor make it a perfect base for many toppings.

Storing and Shelf Life

This cake stays moist for several days when stored properly:

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container.

• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate if your kitchen is warm; bring to room temperature before serving.

• You can freeze the cake wrapped well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

  
  

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this cake over multiple days without losing quality. You can learn more about olive oil in Diana cooking lessons, check the upcpming scheduling