Olive Oil and Lemon Cake: Moist, Fresh, & Full of Flavour
When it comes to baking, few combinations are as refreshing as citrus and olive oil.
This recipe brings together the bright zest of lemons with the rich, fruity notes of olive oil, creating a dessert that’s light, fragrant, and irresistibly moist!
Why use olive oil in a lemon cake?
Butter has long been a standard ingredient in cakes, but olive oil offers unique advantages:
- Moist texture: Olive oil keeps cakes tender and prevents them from drying out.
- Lasting freshness: Unlike butter-based cakes, those made with olive oil stay soft for days.
- Flavour pairing: The fruity notes of olive oil complement the tangy sharpness of lemon perfectly.
The result? A cake with a delicate crumb and a flavour profile that feels both modern and timeless.
Which olive oil should you use for lemon cake?
Select our Light in Flavour Olive Oil for baking this lemon cake as a robust oil may overpower the lemon, while a more delicate one lets the citrus shine.
How to make your lemon cake stand out
Here are a few tips to elevate your recipe:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly grated zest and juice give the cake its signature brightness.
- Balance sweetness and acidity: The slight bitterness of olive oil softens the sharpness of lemon, creating a smooth harmony.
- Finish with a glaze: A simple lemon icing or drizzle adds extra zing and makes the cake look irresistible.
Beyond dessert: when to serve it
A full-flavoured and zesty olive oil and lemon cake isn’t just for after dinner. It works beautifully as:
- A mid-morning treat with coffee.
- An elegant dessert topped with whipped cream or yoghurt.
- A light afternoon cake to serve with tea.
Because it stays moist for several days, it’s also perfect for preparing in advance — ideal if you’re hosting or want a ready-made snack on hand.
Final thoughts
An olive oil and lemon cake is proof that simple ingredients can produce extraordinary results. The richness of olive oil and the brightness of lemon make for a cake that’s moist, aromatic, and deliciously memorable.
If you haven’t tried baking with olive oil before, this is the perfect place to start. With every slice, you’ll discover why olive oil deserves a place in your baking repertoire.