How to Make Olive Oil Cake
February 24, 2025
Olive oil cake is the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, delivering a moist, tender crumb with a subtle fruity richness that only high-quality olive oil can provide. Unlike traditional butter-based cakes, this Mediterranean-inspired treat stays incredibly soft for days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert. With hints of citrus and a delicate sweetness, it’s a cake that feels both rustic and elegant—perfect for afternoon tea, a special occasion, or just because. Whether you enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with a bright citrus glaze, this olive oil cake is sure to impress with every bite.
Origin of Olive Oil Cake 🌍🍰
Olive oil cake has its roots in the Mediterranean region, where olive oil has been a staple ingredient for centuries. Countries like Italy, Spain, and Greece have long used olive oil in baking, especially in rustic, home-style cakes that prioritize moisture and simplicity. Unlike butter-heavy cakes, olive oil cakes were historically made in areas where dairy was less accessible, making them a practical and delicious alternative.
The concept of using olive oil instead of butter has become popular worldwide, especially in Italian and Spanish baking traditions, where citrus, nuts, and honey often complement the cake’s delicate flavors. Today, olive oil cake is celebrated for its ability to stay moist for days while offering a unique richness without feeling heavy.
Flavor Profile of Olive Oil Cake 🏺🍊
✔ Moist & Tender: Thanks to the high-fat content of olive oil, this cake has an ultra-soft crumb that stays fresh longer than butter-based cakes.
✔ Fruity & Slightly Peppery: The olive oil lends a subtle fruity and grassy taste with a mild peppery finish, depending on the quality used.
✔ Citrusy & Bright: A classic olive oil cake often includes lemon or orange zest and juice, adding a vibrant, slightly tangy contrast.
✔ Lightly Sweet: Unlike heavily frosted cakes, this one is naturally sweet without being overpowering, making it perfect for pairing with coffee, tea, or even a dessert wine.
✔ Earthy & Rustic: It carries a natural warmth that feels both elegant and homey, perfect for simple gatherings or special occasions.
Olive Oil Cake (10-inch Pan)
Moist, fluffy, and delicately citrusy
Ingredients
🟢 Dry Ingredients:
2 ¼ cups (290g) all-purpose flour
1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
🟡 Wet Ingredients:
4 large eggs
1 ¼ cups (250g) granulated sugar
⅞ cup (210ml) extra virgin olive oil (fruity, high-quality)
1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or buttermilk for tanginess)
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Zest of 1 ½ lemons (or oranges for a sweeter note)
⅓ cup (80ml) fresh lemon or orange juice
🟠 Optional Toppings:
Powdered sugar for dusting
Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
Fresh berries
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 10-inch (25 cm) round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3️⃣ Whisk the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
- Slowly stream in the olive oil while whisking continuously.
- Add the milk, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and whisk until smooth.
4️⃣ Combine & Bake
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until no dry streaks remain.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 42-48 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5️⃣ Cool & Serve
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Optional Citrus Glaze 🍊🍯
Ingredients:
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon or orange juice (adjust for consistency)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest
Instructions:
- Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and pourable.
- Adjust consistency with more juice (if too thick) or more sugar (if too thin).
- Drizzle over the cooled cake and let it set for 15 minutes before slicing.
Tips & Variations:
✔ For a more moist cake, use buttermilk instead of regular milk.
✔ For an intense citrus flavor, use blood orange juice and zest.
✔ For a nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted almonds on top.
✔ For longer storage, keep wrapped in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Breakdown – Per Serving (12 Servings)
✔ Calories: 290 kcal
✔ Total Fat: 15g
✔ Saturated Fat: 2g
✔ Cholesterol: 55mg
✔ Sodium: 150mg
✔ Total Carbohydrates: 35g
✔ Fiber: 1g
✔ Sugars: 18g
✔ Protein: 5g