Orange Olive Oil Cake is a delightful and moist dessert that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh oranges combined with the rich, fruity essence of extra virgin olive oil. This cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner. With its tender crumb and subtle sweetness, this cake is a versatile choice, making it an elegant snack or a grand finale to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Olive Oil Cake
This orange-infused olive oil cake brings a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. Here are just a few reasons to love it:
- It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the use of olive oil.
- Fresh orange zest and juice provide a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Simple ingredients make it an easy orange olive oil cake recipe.
- Perfect for gluten-free diets when using appropriate flour alternatives.
- Pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings, including a simple orange glaze.
- Rich in healthy fats, making it a better choice than butter-based cakes.
Ingredients for Orange Olive Oil Cake
Gather these items:
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
How to Make Orange Olive Oil Cake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the eggs on high speed for three minutes until light and frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture thickens and becomes pale.
- Step 3: Gradually beat in the extra virgin olive oil, followed by the 2% milk, grated orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a smooth batter.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Step 5: Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet egg mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a mini offset spatula, butter knife, or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the pan.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean without wet batter.
- Step 8: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, carefully remove the cake from the pan and peel off the parchment paper.
- Step 9: Lightly dust the top of the cake with confectioners’ sugar. Slice and serve as a deliciously moist orange-flavored treat. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Orange Olive Oil Cake
Keep these in mind:
- Use the best olive oil for baking cakes to enhance the flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to maintain its moisture.
- Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract for added depth.
- For a vegan orange olive oil cake, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use almond milk.
Best Ways to Serve Orange Olive Oil Cake
This delightful cake can be served in various ways:
- Enjoy it plain for a light snack.
- Top with fresh fruits or berries for a refreshing twist.
- Drizzle with an orange glaze for a charming finish.
How to Store and Reheat Orange Olive Oil Cake
To keep your moist orange olive oil dessert fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Olive Oil Cake
What’s the secret to perfect Orange Olive Oil Cake?
The secret lies in using high-quality extra virgin olive oil and fresh orange zest. These ingredients enhance the cake’s flavor, ensuring a deliciously moist cake every time.
Can I make Orange Olive Oil Cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature and dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Orange Olive Oil Cake?
To avoid common mistakes, measure your ingredients accurately and do not overmix the batter. This will help maintain the cake’s tenderness and moistness.
Variations of Orange Olive Oil Cake You Can Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some variations:
- Try adding different citrus zest like lemon or lime for a unique twist.
- Incorporate nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free mix.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken or Apple Bundt Cake Recipe. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, you might enjoy our Healthy Banana Bread Vegan recipe as well. Additionally, learn about the health benefits of olive oil for a nutritious twist on your baking.
Lastly, if you’re curious about the versatility of oranges, they are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!
Print
Moist Orange Olive Oil Cake: A 5-Star Dessert Delight
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Olive Oil Cake is a moist and tender dessert featuring fresh orange zest and juice combined with fruity extra virgin olive oil. Lightly sweetened and dusted with confectioners’ sugar, it’s perfect for an elegant snack or a delightful finish to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup 2% milk
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the eggs on high speed for three minutes until light and frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture thickens and becomes pale.
- Gradually beat in the extra virgin olive oil, followed by the 2% milk, grated orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Mix until everything is well combined, creating a smooth batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet egg mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a mini offset spatula, butter knife, or the back of a spoon to spread the batter evenly across the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean without wet batter.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, carefully remove the cake from the pan and peel off the parchment paper.
- Lightly dust the top of the cake with confectioners’ sugar. Slice and serve as a deliciously moist orange-flavored treat. Enjoy!
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 214
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
