Why You’ll Love This Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s both moist and flavorful, this spiced orange olive oil cake recipe is just what you need. The combination of zesty oranges and rich olive oil creates a cake that’s not only delicious but also unique. Plus, it’s easy to make, which is a bonus for busy bakers!
Health Benefits of Olive Oil
Using olive oil in your baking isn’t just a trend; it’s a smart choice! Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy fats. It’s packed with antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. When you swap butter for olive oil in this spiced orange olive oil cake recipe, you’re making a healthier dessert without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This cake is versatile. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or just want a sweet treat, this cake fits the bill. Its warm spices and citrus flavor make it perfect for fall and winter gatherings. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch!
What You’ll Need for Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
Complete Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some substitutions you can consider:
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- To make it vegan, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
- For a lower sugar option, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- Experiment with different citrus juices, such as lemon or grapefruit, for a unique twist.
How to Make the Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until well combined and slightly frothy. Gradually add the olive oil, fresh orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Pour into the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly domed.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Serve
Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Slice and serve the cake as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Serving Suggestions for Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
How to Serve Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
This cake is best served at room temperature. For an elegant presentation, slice the cake into wedges and dust with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also add a sprig of mint or a slice of orange on the side for a pop of color.
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more sophisticated touch, consider serving it with a drizzle of orange glaze or a side of citrus compote.
Storing & Preserving Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
Best Storage Methods
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
Reheating or Freezing Tips
If you have leftover cake, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. For longer storage, freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Tips for Perfect Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake Every Time
Avoid These Common Mistakes
To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense texture. Also, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
Helpful Tricks for Success
For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter. Additionally, using fresh orange juice and zest will enhance the cake’s citrus flavor significantly.
Fun Variations of Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists
Feel free to experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor profile. You can also add chocolate chips or a swirl of cream cheese for a decadent twist.
Dietary-Friendly Adjustments
To make this cake vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
FAQs
What If My Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake Doesn’t Turn Out Right?
If your cake is dense or doesn’t rise, it may be due to overmixing or expired baking powder. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before baking.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking.
What Ingredients Can I Swap?
You can swap olive oil for other oils like avocado or coconut oil. For a different flavor, try using almond or hazelnut oil. Additionally, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a different sweetness.
Print
Spiced Orange Olive Oil Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful spiced orange olive oil cake that combines zesty oranges and rich olive oil, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until well combined and slightly frothy. Gradually add the olive oil, fresh orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar and serve.
Notes
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: spiced orange olive oil cake, dessert, baking, healthy cake