Olive Oil Cake – There is something uniquely charming about a simple, rustic cake that doesn’t rely on heavy frosting, complex layering, or overly sweet fillings. A well-made Olive Oil Cake captures everything that makes minimalistic desserts so beloved—moistness, rich aroma, delicate sweetness, and a soft texture that feels luxurious with every bite.
Originally rooted in Mediterranean culinary traditions, this cake showcases the natural flavor and complexity of high-quality olive oil, making it a wonderful choice for home bakers who enjoy elegant desserts with wholesome ingredients.
Recipe Overview
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Cuisine: Mediterranean / Italian
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Course: Dessert / Tea Cake
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Servings: 10 slices
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Calories: Approx. 310 per serving
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Active Time: 15 minutes
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Resting Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Equipment Needed
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9-inch round cake pan or springform pan
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Rubber spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Microplane for zesting
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Parchment paper
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Cooling rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
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3 large eggs (room temperature)
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1 cup granulated sugar
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¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil (high-quality, mild flavor)
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¾ cup whole milk (or almond milk)
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1 tablespoon lemon zest (or orange zest)
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2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line the bottom of a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
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Lightly grease the sides with olive oil or nonstick spray.
This prevents sticking and ensures a beautifully clean release.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
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In a medium bowl, whisk together:
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Flour
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Baking powder
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Baking soda
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Salt
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If using almond flour, add it here and whisk well.
Properly mixing dry ingredients helps the cake rise evenly and maintain a light texture.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
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In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
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Add olive oil in a slow stream while whisking continuously.
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Stir in milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
The batter should be silky, glossy, and fragrant.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
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Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture in two batches.
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Gently whisk or fold until just combined.
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Do not overmix—this can make the crumb tough.
The batter will be thin, which is normal for this cake.
5. Bake the Cake
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Pour batter into the prepared cake pan.
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Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.
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Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until:
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The top is golden.
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A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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If the top browns too quickly, cover lightly with foil.
6. Cool and Rest
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Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
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Remove from the pan and place on a cooling rack.
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Allow the cake to rest for 1 hour before slicing.
Resting enhances both texture and flavor, making it more aromatic and tender.
7. Serve
Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with berries, citrus slices, or edible flowers.
This cake pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla gelato.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
(Approx. 10 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Total Fat | 17 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Sugars | 22 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 160 mg |
Tips for the Best Olive Oil Cake
1. Choose the Right Olive Oil
Use a mild, fruity extra-virgin olive oil—not a peppery or overly bitter one.
A good-quality oil improves flavor dramatically.
2. Use Fresh Citrus
Lemon or orange zest adds brightness and elevates the Mediterranean flavor profile.
3. Avoid Overmixing
Overmixing activates gluten and makes the cake dense. Fold gently.
4. Room Temperature Ingredients
Eggs and milk at room temperature help the batter emulsify properly.
5. Rest Time Improves Flavor
This cake tastes even better the next day as the olive oil infuses the crumb.
Conclusion
An olive oil cake is one of the most satisfying desserts you can make at home—light, moist, fragrant, and effortlessly elegant. Its charm lies in its simplicity: everyday ingredients transformed into a tender, aromatic cake that celebrates natural flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it with afternoon tea, serving it at a gathering, or gifting it to someone special, this cake offers the perfect blend of rustic tradition and modern culinary appeal. With its soft crumb, citrusy lift, and subtle richness, it’s a dessert that will quickly become a household favorite.
