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Olive Oil Cake

A moist and flavorful Olive Oil Cake that combines simple ingredients for an extraordinary dessert, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup olive oil (extra virgin for richer flavor; light olive oil is fine too) Use high-quality olive oil.
  • 1 cup sugar (granulated for sweetness; brown sugar can add a nice caramel note)
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature for better emulsification) Room temperature is crucial.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (sift for a light texture; gluten-free flour can be substituted if needed) Sifting is recommended.
  • 1 tsp baking powder (make sure it's fresh for that perfect rise!)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (to enhance flavor)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure for best results; feel free to use almond extract for a twist)
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended; you can use dairy-free alternatives like almond milk) Use room temperature.
  • Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional, but highly recommended for vibrant flavor)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and sugar until well combined and frothy—about 1 minute.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition until creamy.
  5. Stir in the vanilla extract and zest.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  7. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Baking
  1. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  3. Serve plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can bake a day in advance; the flavors improve.