Olive oil cake is a classic Italian dessert that stands out for its moistness and rich flavor. Unlike butter-based cakes, olive oil adds a lightness and depth of flavor, making it a healthier alternative. The use of almond flour not only contributes to the cake's tenderness but also enhances its flavor.

Benefits of Using Olive Oil in Baking

Healthier Fat Source: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy.
Moisture Retention: Cakes made with olive oil tend to stay moist longer than those made with butter.
Flavor Enhancement: A good quality olive oil can add a fruity, peppery flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.

To make a delicious almond olive oil cake, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract
Grated zest of 1 medium orange
1/2 cup orange juice

Optional Glaze

For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding a brown butter glaze:

2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
3 tablespoons whole milk
A few drops of fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Preparing the Cake

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until well combined. Add the olive oil, vanilla extract, almond extract, orange zest, and orange juice, whisking until the mixture is smooth.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Glaze (Optional)

Brown the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a light brown color and has a nutty aroma.

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, sift the confectioner’s sugar. Add the browned butter, milk, and lemon juice, whisking until smooth.

Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, pour the glaze over the top and sprinkle with toasted almonds.

This almond olive oil cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of gelato. It’s perfect for special occasions, brunches, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee.

The almond olive oil cake is a versatile and delicious dessert that showcases the wonderful flavors of olive oil and almonds. With its moist texture and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you choose to enjoy it plain or dressed with a glaze, this cake is a delightful way to celebrate any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!