Name: Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup olive oil (choose a mild, fruity olive oil); 3 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); Zest from 3 lemons; 1 cup whole milk; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar, plus 2 tbsp for sprinkling on top; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 2 cups all-purpose flour; Powdered sugar for dusting

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If you’re searching for a cake that perfectly balances moistness with a bright, zesty punch, the Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This cake isn’t just any dessert; it’s a tender, bursting-with-flavor treat that combines the richness of quality olive oil with the fresh tang of lemons, resulting in a heavenly crumb that’s both light and satisfyingly rich. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet and citrusy, this recipe is a true jewel in the crown of everyday baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round silver baking pan is shown on a white marbled surface, with smooth light yellow cake batter being poured from a clear glass measuring cup into the center of the pan. The batter is thick and has small bubbles on the surface as it flows in a thick stream, creating a slight swirl in the pan. The pan itself has a shiny interior and even edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this cake lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, luscious flavor, and that beautiful golden hue that makes the Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe so special. Using good-quality olive oil and fresh lemons is key to unlocking its vibrant character.

1 cup olive oil: Choose a fruity, mild olive oil to complement the lemon without overpowering the cake.
3 large eggs: They add structure and richness, helping to bind everything together perfectly.
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar plus 2 tbsp for sprinkling: Sweetens the cake and creates a delicate sugary crust on top.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that rounds out the bright lemon.
1/2 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best—this brings the lively citrus punch everyone loves.
Zest from 3 lemons: Bursting with essential oils, it intensifies the lemon flavor deeply.
1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1/2 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake lift to keep it airy and tender.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with lemon juice to react and create a light crumb.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure.
1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for a tender bite.
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A pretty finishing touch that adds delicate sweetness.

How to Make Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which ensures a steady heat for even baking. Grease all sides and the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly, and wrap the exterior with foil. This waterproof barrier safeguards against leaks, especially with the moist batter, so your cake bakes perfectly without a mess.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, eggs, and sugar until smooth and lightly combined. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. This vibrant mixture is where the bright citrus personality of the cake begins to shine.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Incorporate Milk

Sift together the salt, baking powder, baking soda, and all-purpose flour. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the whole milk to the wet mixture in batches. Be gentle and avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender. You want just enough mixing to eliminate dry streaks—this attention to texture is critical for that delicate crumb.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle the top evenly with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This forms a thin, crunchy glaze that contrasts beautifully with the moist interior. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the cake rises and the surface takes on a golden brown hue. If your oven runs hot, you can tent the cake with foil toward the end to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Cool and Finish

Once baked, cool the cake in its pan for about 10 minutes before releasing the springform. Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely, delicate sweetness and an elegant look, though it’s entirely optional.

How to Serve Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe

A round lemon cake dusted with white powdered sugar on top rests on crumpled light brown parchment paper, placed on a white marbled surface. One slice has been cut and placed on a white plate at the bottom left, showing the cake's moist yellow inside with a slightly golden brown crust. A silver fork lies diagonally on the plate beside the slice. To the right side of the cake, a metal cake server with a wooden handle holds a second triangular slice with the same powdered sugar topping. Nearby, a white bowl contains a halved yellow lemon. The scene is softly lit, highlighting the cake's texture and the powdered sugar dusting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This cake’s understated elegance allows for simple yet beautiful garnishing. Fresh lemon slices, a few sprigs of mint, or even edible flowers can brighten the presentation without stealing the spotlight. A light dusting of powdered sugar mimics a soft blanket of snow and adds a subtle sweetness.

Side Dishes

Lemon Olive Oil Cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for indulgence. Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries bring an extra layer of color and tartness that complements the lemon’s brightness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special brunch, consider slicing the cake into bite-sized squares and serving on a platter, garnished with lemon zest curls or candied lemon peel. You could also layer it with lemon curd between slices and turn it into an impressive dessert centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe stays moist and flavorful for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it covered to prevent it drying out and to preserve the delicate lemon aroma.

Freezing

Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It freezes beautifully for up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter.

Reheating

If you prefer your cake slightly warm, pop a slice into a low-temperature oven for about 10 minutes or microwave it for 15-20 seconds. This will revive the olive oil’s richness and release the lemon fragrance anew.

FAQs

Can I use vegetable oil instead of olive oil?

While you can substitute vegetable oil, olive oil provides a unique, fruity depth that is a hallmark of this Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe. Using a good-quality olive oil really enhances the flavor profile.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is ready when it’s risen, has a golden top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but results may vary. The texture might be a bit different, so pick a blend suited for baking and include any recommended binders.

What’s the best way to zest lemons?

Use a microplane grater to finely zest the lemons, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. The zest contains the essential oils that give this recipe its vivid aroma.

Is this cake suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Its elegant flavor and moist crumb make the Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe perfect for celebrations, brunches, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. It always impresses.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels both luxurious and homey at the same time. It’s a joy to bake and even more delightful to eat, bursting with freshness and subtleties that keep you coming back for another slice. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones—baking this cake will brighten any day!