Vanilla Olive Oil Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, aromatic flavor of vanilla with the subtle fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil.
This Vanilla Olive Oil Cake Recipe offers a moist, tender crumb and a sophisticated twist on traditional vanilla cake. Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations, it’s a versatile treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
The use of olive oil not only imparts a unique flavor but also makes the cake incredibly moist and slightly lighter than its butter-based counterparts.
With its simple yet elegant flavor profile, this cake is sure to impress both your family and guests. I’ve baked this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress.
Why You Will Choose Olive Oil for Your Cake?
Olive oil isn’t just for savory dishes; it can transform your baked goods with its unique flavor and texture. Unlike butter, olive oil provides a lighter crumb and adds a subtle, fruity note to your cake.
It’s also a healthier alternative, offering monounsaturated fats that can be beneficial to your diet. This vanilla olive oil cake combines these benefits with the timeless appeal of vanilla, creating a dessert that’s both luxurious and wholesome.
How To Make Vanilla Olive Oil Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 280 (per serving)
Yield: 10 servings
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper for lining
Ingredients List
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ⅛ cups extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 ⅓ tsp baking powder
- ⅔ tsp baking soda
- ⅔ tsp salt
- ¾ cup whole milk
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for added flavor)
Making Method
Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually mix in the olive oil and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and whole milk to the sugar-egg mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the lemon zest, if using.
Bake the Cake:
1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve:
1. Once cooled, slice and enjoy the Vanilla Olive Oil Cake. It’s delicious on its own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Serving Suggestions
1. With Fresh Berries
I love serving this vanilla olive oil cake with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The fruit’s natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the cake’s subtle vanilla and olive oil flavors.
2. A Dusting of Powdered Sugar
For a more minimalist approach, I sometimes dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar. It adds a touch of elegance and just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
3. Serve with Whipped Cream
If I’m feeling a little indulgent, I whip up some lightly sweetened whipped cream to serve alongside the cake. The airy texture complements the moist cake perfectly.
Health Benefits
The star ingredient of this cake, olive oil, is packed with health benefits. It’s rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
Olive oil also contains antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress. Unlike butter, olive oil offers a heart-healthy alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
What Makes Vanilla Olive Oil Cake Special?
Olive oil is renowned for its health benefits, which include healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. When used in baking, it offers several advantages over traditional butter:
1. Texture: Olive oil creates a cake with a moist, tender crumb. Its liquid form helps the cake stay soft and prevents it from drying out.
2. Flavor: Unlike butter, olive oil imparts a subtle, fruity note to your cake. This nuanced flavor complements the vanilla without overpowering it.
3. Health Benefits: Olive oil is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy. It also has fewer saturated fats compared to butter.
Can You Use Olive Oil In Vanilla Cake Mix?
Yes, olive oil can be used in vanilla cake mix as a substitute for butter or other oils. It provides a moist texture and a subtle, fruity undertone that complements the vanilla flavor.
When using olive oil, choose a high-quality extra-virgin variety for the best results, and make sure to adjust the recipe proportions if necessary to maintain the cake’s balance.
Is Olive Oil Cake Healthier Than Regular Cake?
Olive oil cake is generally considered healthier than traditional cake because olive oil contains monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
It also typically has less saturated fat compared to cakes made with butter. Additionally, olive oil has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a more nutritious choice.
Does Olive Oil Affect The Flavor Of Cake?
Yes, olive oil does affect the flavor of cake. It imparts a mild, fruity note that can enhance the overall taste of the cake.
While the flavor is subtle, it adds a unique depth compared to the more neutral taste of butter or other oils.
This can make the cake more interesting and nuanced, especially when paired with complementary flavors like vanilla.
Conclusion
Vanilla Olive Oil Cake Recipe is a testament to the fact that simplicity can be profoundly satisfying. This Vanilla Olive Oil Cake Recipe transforms a few basic ingredients into a moist, flavorful cake that stands out for its subtle complexity.
The use of olive oil not only adds a unique taste but also ensures a tender texture that remains fresh for several days.
Its versatility allows it to be paired with a variety of toppings, from fresh berries to a dusting of powdered sugar, making it a true classic in the world of baking.
Enjoy the delicate flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade treat that is both elegant and comforting.
More Delicious Vanilla Cakes
Vanilla Cake with Strawberry – A Delightful Treat
Cherry Vanilla Cake – A Deliciously Fruity
Easy Make French Vanilla Cake Mix Recipe
Vanilla Cake With Strawberry Frosting – A Delightful Treat
Vanilla Olive Oil Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper for lining
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ⅛ cups extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 ⅓ tsp baking powder
- ⅔ tsp baking soda
- ⅔ tsp salt
- ¾ cup whole milk
- Zest of 1 lemon optional, for added flavor
Instructions
Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round pans.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the olive oil and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and whole milk to the sugar-egg mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the lemon zest, if using.
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth 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.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve:
- Once cooled, slice and enjoy the Vanilla Olive Oil Cake. It’s delicious on its own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.