Orange Olive Oil Cake

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Introduction

Orange Olive Oil Cake is a perfect combination of light, fruity, and slightly savory, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s unlike any traditional dessert. With the rich taste of olive oil and the refreshing citrus notes from orange juice and zest, this cake is a beautiful balance of delicate sweetness and subtle complexity. It’s a versatile treat, ideal for brunches, an afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert after a meal.

One of my favorite things about this cake is the unique depth of flavor provided by the olive oil. The fruity notes blend effortlessly with the fresh citrus, and as it bakes, the scent of orange and olive oil fills the kitchen, making it almost irresistible. I recall baking this cake on a lazy Sunday morning, and it became an instant hit with my friends and family. There’s something so inviting and comforting about it—light yet satisfying.

This cake is also incredibly easy to adapt. You can experiment with different citrus fruits or even drizzle a little honey over the top for extra sweetness. Plus, since it uses olive oil, it’s a great choice for a slightly healthier alternative to traditional cakes without compromising on flavor. Once you try this Orange Olive Oil Cake, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved recipe in my collection!

Perfect For

This cake is perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or as a light dessert after dinner. It’s also a great option for holiday meals or when you want to impress guests with something a little different. The fresh, zesty orange flavor and rich olive oil ensure that everyone will enjoy this unique treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist & Tender: The use of olive oil creates a soft, moist texture that is simply irresistible.
  • Citrusy Flavor: Fresh orange zest and juice deliver a vibrant citrus taste that makes this cake refreshing and bright.
  • Healthier Twist: Olive oil provides healthy fats, making it a more nutritious option compared to traditional butter cakes.
  • Easy & Elegant: Simple ingredients come together to create a sophisticated, beautifully flavored cake that is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 10 servings
  • Calories Per Serving: Approximately 290 calories
  • Key Nutrients Per Serving:
    • Protein: 3g
    • Carbohydrates: 42g
    • Fat: 14g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Sodium: 170mg

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or almond milk)

For the Glaze (optional):

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 tsp orange zest

Ingredient Highlights

  • Olive Oil: Adds moisture and a subtle, rich flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake. Olive oil also contributes to a healthier fat profile.
  • Fresh Oranges: Both orange juice and zest are key to imparting that signature citrus flavor that shines in this cake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Complements the orange and olive oil to bring a rounded, aromatic flavor to the dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and sugar. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
  4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  5. Stir in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glaze (Optional):

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a bit more orange juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
  2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

How to Serve

Serve slices of the cake as-is for a simple treat or garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and makes an excellent breakfast cake as well.

Additional Tips

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, use room temperature eggs and olive oil when making the batter.
  • Choosing Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the most robust flavor, though any mild olive oil will also work if you prefer a subtler taste.
  • Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended for the freshest flavor, but store-bought juice will work in a pinch.

Recipe Variations

  • Lemon Olive Oil Cake:
    • For a refreshing alternative to the classic citrus flavor, swap the orange zest and juice with lemon. The bright, tangy flavor of lemon adds a zesty, fresh dimension to the olive oil cake, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more intense citrus profile. Lemon’s natural acidity balances wonderfully with the richness of olive oil, and you can elevate the flavor further by adding a hint of lemon zest to the batter. After baking, consider drizzling the cake with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a splash of water for a delightful, extra citrus punch.
  • Gluten-Free Option:
    • To make this cake gluten-free, a simple substitution of the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend will do the trick. These blends typically contain a mixture of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour, offering a similar texture to regular flour while avoiding gluten. Ensure that all other ingredients used are also certified gluten-free, such as the olive oil and citrus juice, for a fully gluten-free dessert. Depending on the blend, you might need to add a bit more liquid or let the batter rest for a few minutes before baking to achieve the right consistency.
  • Herbal Twist:
    • Take your cake to a more sophisticated level by adding fresh rosemary to the batter. Rosemary pairs beautifully with the citrus, bringing an herbaceous depth to the flavor profile. Finely chop about a teaspoon of fresh rosemary leaves and stir them into the batter before baking. The rosemary introduces an aromatic, piney note that balances the sweetness and citrus tang of the cake. You could also experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil for different herbal accents that complement the olive oil base of the cake.
  • Almond Flour:
    • For a nutty and gluten-free version of this cake, almond flour is an excellent choice. Almond flour lends a moist, dense texture to baked goods and adds a natural nutty richness. Using almond flour instead of wheat flour not only makes the cake gluten-free but also creates a slightly firmer, more luxurious crumb. Since almond flour has a higher fat content than regular flour, it also contributes to a rich, buttery texture without the need for additional fats. Just make sure to use a finer grind of almond flour to ensure the cake remains light and airy while still maintaining its depth of flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storing: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy within a few days of thawing.

Special Equipment

  • 8-inch round cake pan
  • Whisk or electric mixer for mixing
  • Small bowl for the glaze

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the cake a day in advance. It will stay moist and flavorful, and the flavors continue to develop as it sits.

Q: How can I make this cake even more orange-flavored?
A: Add extra zest to the batter and the glaze, or even add a bit of orange liqueur to the glaze for an adult twist.

Q: Can I use a different type of oil?
A: While olive oil is traditional in this recipe, you can also use avocado oil for a neutral taste that doesn’t interfere with the citrus flavors.

Conclusion

Orange Olive Oil Cake is a delightful and zesty dessert that combines the rich, fruity flavor of olive oil with the bright, tangy essence of orange. Its moist texture and subtle citrus undertones make it a standout in any dessert lineup, perfect for everything from afternoon tea to a festive gathering.

This cake is not only simple to prepare, but also versatile. You can play around with different types of citrus zest, or even add a handful of nuts to enhance its texture. Whether served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Bake this delicious cake today and watch how quickly it disappears. Don’t forget to capture a photo of your masterpiece and share it on Instagram—tag me so we can admire your delicious creation. Enjoy baking!

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