Olive Oil & Orange Cake

Growing up, one of my fondest memories was baking this delicious olive oil and orange cake using our own family extra virgin olive oil, creating a simple yet utterly delicious cake. This recipe is a family favorite, which I now bake for my sons.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• Zest of 2 large oranges
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze (optional):

• 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

• Orange zest for garnish

Method:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

• Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with olive oil and dust with flour. Alternatively, line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, and eggs until smooth and well combined.

• Add the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Combine Mixtures:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Bake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

• Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

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6. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):

• In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth and slightly runny.

• Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and sprinkle with a little extra orange zest.

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7. Serve:

• Slice and serve at room temperature, with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

This cake is a true taste of tradition, blending the rustic flavors of olive oil and citrus into a moist, fragrant treat. Try it, and you’ll see why it’s been a favorite for generations!