Lemon olive oil cake is a deliciously soft, moist, and tender dessert filled with bright and tangy lemon flavor. It’s perfect for those who appreciate simple desserts with fresh flavors. 

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients:
  
  • 1 ½ cups (195g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • Zest of 2 lemons
  • ½ cup (120ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk
• Optional Topping:
  
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
   
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
   
3. Infuse Sugar with Lemon Zest: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar until it becomes fragrant and slightly moist.
   
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the olive oil to the lemon-sugar mixture and whisk until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and milk, and whisk until the mixture is smooth.
   
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender crumb.
   
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy!
   

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of the cake)
• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 95mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 3g

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Olive Oil Cake

Lemon olive oil cake is a perfect balance of rich, moist texture and refreshing citrus flavor. Unlike traditional butter-based cakes, this dessert uses extra-virgin olive oil, which not only makes it healthier but also gives it a unique depth of flavor. The olive oil keeps the cake soft and tender for days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Another reason to love this cake is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and no complicated techniques, anyone can bake this cake successfully. The combination of lemon zest and fresh lemon juice gives the cake a natural brightness, making it ideal for spring and summer gatherings. This cake is incredibly versatile as well. It can be enjoyed plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or paired with whipped cream and fresh berries for an extra indulgent treat. Whether served as a light dessert, an afternoon snack, or even at breakfast with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to become a household favorite.

What Makes This Cake Unique?

One of the key differences between a lemon olive oil cake and a traditional butter cake is the use of extra-virgin olive oil. Olive oil provides a velvety texture and enhances the moistness of the cake without making it greasy. Unlike butter, olive oil stays liquid at room temperature, which helps the cake retain its moisture for longer periods. The choice of olive oil also plays a role in the cake’s flavor. A mild, fruity olive oil works best, as it complements the lemon rather than overpowering it. The end result is a cake that’s rich yet light, with a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth. Another highlight is the cake’s balance of flavors. The natural tartness of lemon counters the richness of the olive oil, creating a harmonious taste that isn’t overly sweet. The zest adds a burst of citrusy aroma, while the juice ensures a refreshing tang with every bite.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Olive Oil Cake

This cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. If you prefer a simple presentation, a light dusting of powdered sugar is enough to enhance its beauty. The cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, which add a pop of color and extra freshness. For a more decadent option, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the cake’s soft crumb, making it an irresistible dessert. If you want to enhance the citrus flavor, you can also drizzle a lemon glaze over the cake. A glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice will add a slight sweetness and additional moisture, making the cake even more delightful. This cake also works well as a brunch or breakfast option. A slice alongside a cup of coffee or tea makes for a satisfying morning treat that isn’t too heavy. The olive oil ensures that the cake remains moist even the next day, so you can enjoy it for multiple mornings without losing any of its delicious texture.

How to Store and Keep This Cake Fresh

One of the best features of this lemon olive oil cake is how well it stays fresh. Thanks to the olive oil, the cake remains moist for days, unlike butter-based cakes that can dry out quickly. To store the cake at room temperature, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you prefer a longer storage time, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to bring the cake back to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy its soft texture and flavors. For even longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or leave it at room temperature for a few hours. The cake will taste just as fresh as when it was first baked.

Tips for Making the Best Lemon Olive Oil Cake

• Use high-quality olive oil: Since olive oil is one of the main ingredients, using a good-quality, mild-flavored extra-virgin olive oil will ensure the best taste. Avoid very strong or bitter olive oils, as they can overpower the lemon flavor.
• Fresh lemons make all the difference: For the best citrus flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated lemon zest. Bottled lemon juice lacks the same vibrant taste as fresh lemons.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a denser cake rather than a light and tender crumb. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid this issue.
• Check for doneness properly: Since every oven is slightly different, start checking the cake around the 40-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center if it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the cake is done.
• Let the cake cool before slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to crumble and lose moisture.

Variations to Try

While this cake is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas to try:

• Add a hint of vanilla: A teaspoon of vanilla extract can enhance the flavors and add a subtle sweetness.
• Mix in almond flour: Replacing a portion of all-purpose flour with almond flour can create a slightly denser texture with a nutty undertone.
• Incorporate poppy seeds: A tablespoon of poppy seeds will give the cake a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness, similar to a lemon poppy seed cake.
• Try an orange version: Swap out the lemon zest and juice for orange zest and juice to create an orange olive oil cake with a naturally sweet and citrusy taste.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this cake.

Conclusion

Lemon olive oil cake is an exceptional dessert that combines simplicity, elegance, and rich flavor in every bite. Its moist, tender texture and bright citrus notes make it a standout choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special celebration. The use of olive oil not only enhances the cake’s texture but also allows it to stay fresh for days, making it a great make-ahead dessert option. The best part about this cake is its versatility.