Citrus Olive Oil Cake

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Equipment:
Mixing bowl
whisk
measuring cups
measuring spoons
9-inch round cake pan
oven
Cuisine Type: Mediterranean
This Citrus Olive Oil Cake is a fragrant and moist dessert that embodies the essence of Mediterranean baking. Combining the rich flavors of high-quality olive oil with the bright notes of citrus, this cake is both simple to make and a lovely addition to any gathering.
The olive oil adds a unique depth of flavor and keeps the cake moist longer than traditional butter-based cakes, making it an excellent choice for serving at special occasions or enjoying with your afternoon tea. The cake is enhanced with fresh orange and lemon zest, which not only adds a delightful aroma but also brightens the flavor profile.
This recipe is incredibly versatile; you can experiment with different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit or blood orange, to create your own signature version. Each slice of this cake is a celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, ensuring that it’s well-coated to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly fluffy, which will help incorporate air into the batter.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Incorporate the orange zest, lemon zest, orange juice, and lemon juice, mixing until everything is well blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a lovely presentation, if desired. Slice and serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
Extra Tips:
For an added layer of flavor, consider drizzling a simple citrus glaze over the cake made from powdered sugar and a little bit of citrus juice. You can also add a pinch of vanilla extract to the batter for a warm undertone.
This cake is best enjoyed the day after baking, as the flavors continue to meld and develop. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.