Mediterranean Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Recipe
This Mediterranean Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake is a moist, tender treat bursting with bright citrus flavor and a warm hint of exotic cardamom. Made with wholesome ingredients like extra virgin olive oil, fresh orange juice, and Greek yogurt, it offers a delicate crumb and a balanced sweetness perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
Wet Ingredients
- Zest from 2 large oranges
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 3 large eggs
- ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cardamom. In a separate bowl, mix together the orange zest, fresh orange juice, Greek yogurt, eggs, extra virgin olive oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Tap the pan lightly on the countertop to release any air bubbles and to level the batter evenly.
- Cook to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes or until the cake’s center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
- Finishing Touches: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cake out onto the rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light citrus glaze for extra sweetness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve with a cup of tea or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Enjoy the delicious combination of citrus and cardamom flavors in every bite.
Notes
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to maintain a light and tender crumb.
- Use fresh oranges for zest and juice to maximize flavor brightness.
- Extra virgin olive oil adds complexity, but mild olive oil can be used as a substitute if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
- Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to one week.
- Pair with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated presentation.
