Orange Olive Oil Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of citrus with its moist, tender crumb. This cake combines the vibrant flavors of fresh orange zest and juice, complemented by the rich, fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil. Lightly sweetened and finished with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, it’s perfect for a sophisticated snack or a lovely end to any meal. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Orange Olive Oil Cake
This moist orange olive oil cake recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The use of olive oil not only adds a unique flavor but also contributes to the cake’s moist texture, ensuring that every bite is delicious. Additionally, the natural sweetness from the oranges balances perfectly with the oil, creating a harmonious taste. Furthermore, this cake is versatile; you can enjoy it plain, with a glaze, or even as a base for fruit toppings. It can be made gluten-free or vegan, catering to various dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those looking for an elegant dessert without too much fuss!
Ingredients for Orange Olive Oil Cake
Gather these items:
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
How to Make Orange Olive Oil Cake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the eggs on high speed for three minutes until light and frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture thickens and becomes pale.
- Step 3: Gradually beat in the extra virgin olive oil, followed by the 2% milk, grated orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a smooth batter.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Step 5: Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet egg mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a mini offset spatula, butter knife, or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the pan.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean without wet batter.
- Step 8: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, carefully remove the cake from the pan and peel off the parchment paper.
- Step 9: Lightly dust the top of the cake with confectioners’ sugar. Slice and serve as a deliciously moist orange-flavored treat. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Orange Olive Oil Cake
Keep these in mind:
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better volume.
- Don’t overmix the batter; this will help keep the cake tender and fluffy.
- For a gluten-free orange olive oil cake, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Try adding a glaze made from orange juice and powdered sugar for an extra layer of sweetness.
Best Ways to Serve Orange Olive Oil Cake
This cake is incredibly versatile! You can serve it plain, sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar for a classic touch. For a delightful twist, consider drizzling it with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. Pair it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. It also works beautifully as a breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
How to Store and Reheat Orange Olive Oil Cake
To keep your orange olive oil cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. When ready to enjoy, simply allow it to come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This will refresh its moisture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Olive Oil Cake
What’s the secret to perfect Orange Olive Oil Cake?
The secret lies in using fresh orange zest and high-quality extra virgin olive oil. These ingredients enhance the flavor profile, making your cake aromatic and delicious. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter to retain its tender texture.
Can I make Orange Olive Oil Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Orange Olive Oil Cake?
To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, and measure your flour accurately. Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake, so mix until just combined. Following these tips will help yield a light and moist cake.
Variations of Orange Olive Oil Cake You Can Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several delicious variations to explore. For a citrus twist, consider adding lemon or grapefruit zest for a refreshing flavor. You can also create a gluten-free orange olive oil cake by substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour. For those who prefer a vegan option, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg substitute. These variations will keep your baking routine exciting!

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Banana Split Cake or Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Cake. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, you might also enjoy Creamy Coconut Curry Noodle Soup for a delightful twist on flavors. Don’t forget to check out Creamy Baked Cabbage with Crispy Bacon for a savory side dish!
Print
Delicious Orange Olive Oil Cake Recipe for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Olive Oil Cake is a moist and tender dessert featuring fresh orange zest and juice combined with fruity extra virgin olive oil. Lightly sweetened and dusted with confectioners’ sugar, it’s perfect for an elegant snack or a delightful finish to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the eggs on high speed for three minutes until light and frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture thickens and becomes pale.
- Gradually beat in the extra virgin olive oil, followed by the 2% milk, grated orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a smooth batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet egg mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a mini offset spatula, butter knife, or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean without wet batter.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, carefully remove the cake from the pan and peel off the parchment paper.
- Lightly dust the top of the cake with confectioners’ sugar. Slice and serve as a deliciously moist orange-flavored treat. Enjoy!
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 214 calories
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg

