Name: Olive Oil Cake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1¼ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup white granulated sugar; ⅔ cup olive oil; 2 lg eggs; ½ cup Greek yogurt; ¼ cup orange juice; zest of 1 orange; ¼ tsp. baking soda; ½ tsp. baking powder; ½ tsp. salt; 1 tsp. vanilla extract; ¼ cup sliced almonds ((or any nut of your choice))

Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this sweet Olive Oil Cake recipe. Perfectly suited for a Middle Eastern palate, this cake is made with olive oil, a wholesome alternative to butter or vegetable oil. It’s a hassle-free dessert option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Why Olive Oil?

Olive oil is the main source of fat in Mediterranean cooking and as such, is the star of this recipe. It offers a variety of health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, it elevates this cake to a guilt-free indulgence. Unlike butter or vegetable oil, olive oil adds a distinct depth of flavor without overpowering. There is no obvious olive oil flavor, but rather a lightly sweetened and very moist cake.

What is great about using olive oil in this recipe at well, is that you don’t have to wait for anything to come to room temperature and can make it on the spot! It is a one-bowl recipe, and comes together in less than 10 minutes.

This cake reminded me of Sfouf, another one-bowl cake recipe I love to make so similarly, I sprinkled sliced almonds on the top for a delightful crunch. Feel free to use your favorite nut (walnuts, pine nuts) or you can omit if you prefer.

This cake also has some Greek yogurt in it, for added protein and moisture. It also makes the cake so light and fluffy. This olive oil cake is delicious served at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea in the morning or in the evening for a special treat.

STEP 1

Preheat the oven to 350F and spray a 9-inch round cake pan with non-stick spray.

STEP 2

In a large bowl, add the sugar and crack both eggs.

Using an electric whisk, whisk them together until pale yellow, about 2 minutes.

STEP 3

Add the olive oil, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, orange juice, and zest of the orange and whisk to combine.

STEP 4

Add the remaining dry ingredients, the flour, baking soda and powder, and salt.

Whisk for another minute until fully incorporated.

STEP 5

Pour the batter into the oiled cake pan…

…and sprinkle with the sliced almonds.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and lightly golden on top. Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and dust with powdered sugar, if desired.