By Akshara
March 11, 2026
Olive oil cake is a classic Mediterranean dessert that uses extra virgin olive oil instead of butter, giving the cake a soft crumb and delicate fruity flavour. The oil helps keep the cake moist for longer compared to many butter-based cakes. Citrus zest such as lemon or orange is commonly added to enhance the aroma and balance the richness of the oil. This cake is often served with tea or coffee.
1½ cups all-purpose flour ¾ cup sugar ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 eggs ¾ cup milk or yogurt Zest of 1 lemon or orange 1½ tsp baking powder Pinch salt 1 tsp vanilla extract
Preheat the oven and whisk eggs with sugar until the mixture becomes light and slightly fluffy.
Add olive oil, milk or yogurt, vanilla extract and citrus zest and mix until smooth.
Combine flour, baking powder and salt separately and fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Pour the batter into a greased cake tin and bake until the cake becomes golden and cooked through.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing and serving.