Olive oil isn't just for savory dishes! In baking, it's a great substitute for butter, providing a soft texture and a subtly fruity flavor. Little known in traditional desserts, it's nevertheless a key ingredient in the Mediterranean, where it's used to make light and flavorful cakes.
Today, we're bringing you a recipe for an olive oil cake that's simple, delicious, and full of sweetness. A perfect pastry for a snack, a light dessert, or a delicious brunch!
Why use olive oil in a cake?
Olive oil is an ingredient with multiple benefits, and its use in baking has several advantages:
Unparalleled softness : Unlike butter, which hardens as it cools, olive oil keeps cakes soft for longer.
A healthier alternative : Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, making it a more balanced choice than butter.
A delicate and refined taste : Its fruity aroma blends wonderfully with flavors such as vanilla, honey or citrus fruits.
If you're unsure about which type of oil to use, choose a mild, fruity extra virgin olive oil . An oil that's too intense could overpower the flavor of the cake.
Ingredients (serves 6 to 8)
- 200 g of flour
- 150 g of sugar
- 3 eggs
- 10 cl of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 sachet of baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 10 cl of milk or natural yogurt (for extra softness)
- 1 tsp vanilla or orange blossom extract
Preparation
1. Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 180°C (fan-assisted). Butter and flour a loaf tin or round baking tin to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the yeast evenly and ensures even baking.
3. Beat the eggs and sugar until pale.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until frothy and slightly pale. This step is essential for incorporating air and giving the cake a light texture.
4. Add the olive oil and flavorings
Gradually pour in the olive oil while whisking, then add the vanilla extract or orange blossom to flavor the dough.
5. Incorporate the dry and liquid ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk (or yogurt). Mix gently with a spatula to avoid overworking the dough and keep it soft.
6. Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the mold and bake for 35 to 40 minutes . To check if it is cooked, insert a knife blade into the center of the cake: it should come out dry.
7. Let cool and enjoy
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool before removing it from the mold. For an even more indulgent touch, you can sprinkle it with icing sugar or serve it with a drizzle of honey.
A simple and elegant cake, to be adopted every day
Olive oil cake is proof that simplicity rhymes with indulgence. Its soft texture and delicate aroma make it a timeless dessert, perfect for a light and sweet break.
All you have to do is try this recipe and savor every bite! And if you love it, don't hesitate to share your favorite variations with us.