Go Back
orange olive oil cake

orange olive oil cake

Orange olive oil cake stands out for its moist crumb and fresh zesty flavor. Simple, elegant, and healthy for any meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Total Time 1 hour 1 minute
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 unit large eggs
  • 1 tbsp orange zest from about 2 oranges
  • 0.5 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 0.25 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine the sugar and orange zest. Rub them together with your fingers to release the oils.
  4. Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and whisk until well blended and pale.
  5. Pour in the olive oil, orange juice, and Greek yogurt. Whisk until smooth.
  6. Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir only until just combined; do not overmix.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge and invert onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Orange olive oil cake is a delightful treat often found on Mediterranean tables and equally fit for everyday snacks or elegant celebrations. Its charm lies in its unfussy preparation and the bright lift of citrus paired with the nuanced aroma of quality olive oil. This recipe is incredibly versatile—perfect with afternoon tea, a festive brunch, or as a comforting dessert any day of the week.
Practical Tips and Ingredient Swaps
If oranges are out of season, try using lemons for a lively twist or even mandarins for extra sweetness. When selecting olive oil, opt for a fruity, mild extra-virgin variety that won’t overpower the cake’s gentle flavors.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt or even unsweetened applesauce.
  • Don’t skip the step of rubbing zest with sugar—this releases fragrant citrus oils, intensifying the fresh aroma.
Baking and Texture Advice
To achieve a light, moist crumb, combine the wet and dry ingredients gently and avoid overmixing. Sifting the dry ingredients helps prevent lumps, ensuring a smooth batter. If your oven tends to run hot, check the cake a few minutes earlier to prevent overbaking and dryness.
Serving and Presentation
This cake is spectacular on its own, but enjoy it with a dusting of powdered sugar and thinly sliced oranges for a beautiful finish. Pair with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla yogurt, or a drizzle of orange syrup for a sophisticated dessert course.
  • Add chopped pistachios or toasted almonds to the batter for a pleasant crunch.
  • For a festive touch, consider baking the batter as cupcakes or a loaf, adjusting baking time as needed.
Enjoy experimenting—this orange olive oil cake easily adapts to your pantry and is sure to become a go-to for any occasion.