Galentine's Citrus Olive Oil Cake

Name: Galentine's Citrus Olive Oil Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; Zest of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 orange; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Juice of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 orange; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

I absolutely love baking this Galentine's Citrus Olive Oil Cake for my friends! The combination of zesty citrus and rich, smooth olive oil creates a uniquely flavorsome dessert that everyone enjoys. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it also stays moist for days, making it perfect for sharing during our Galentine's gatherings. The fragrant citrus notes elevate the olive oil in a way that surprises and delights, and I can't wait for you to experience it too!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:50:30.274Z

Baking this cake has become a cherished tradition among my friends. Each time we gather to celebrate Galentine's Day, I tweak the citrus based on what I have on hand. One time, I added some grapefruit zest alongside the lemon, and it gave an unexpected tartness that everyone loved. I always use high-quality olive oil because it enhances the flavor of the cake beyond anything else.

What often surprises people is that the cake is both light and rich at the same time. The olive oil gives it a luxurious texture, while the fresh citrus keeps it bright. Make sure to let it cool completely before serving; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicate citrus notes that brighten every bite
Rich, moist texture thanks to high-quality olive oil
Perfectly balanced sweetness for any occasion

      

The Role of Olive Oil

Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for achieving the rich, moist texture of this cake. Unlike standard vegetable oils, olive oil adds depth and flavor that really elevate the overall taste profile. I recommend choosing a fruity or robust olive oil to enhance the citrus notes, creating a well-rounded dessert that surprises and delights your taste buds.

Olive oil also interacts beautifully with the acidity of citrus. This balance creates a cake that is light yet flavorful. When you first mix the olive oil with sugar, don’t rush; whisking until it becomes glossy is crucial, as it ensures that the oil is properly emulsified, contributing to a uniform texture throughout the cake.

Citrus Zest and Juice: A Flavor Powerhouse

The zest of both lemon and orange is integral to this recipe, providing aromatic oils that enhance both fragrance and flavor. When zesting, be careful to avoid the white pith underneath, as it can impart a bitter taste. A microplane grater works wonders for achieving finely grated zest, which will release oils more effectively than a box grater, leading to a brighter flavor in the final cake.

Incorporating juice from both fruits further intensifies the citrus experience. You’ll want to use fresh juice instead of bottled; the difference in taste is noticeable. The acidity from the juices not only complements the sweetness of the sugar but also reacts with the baking powder to create a tender cake. It’s this delicate balancing act that makes each bite of your Galentine’s Citrus Olive Oil Cake simply irresistible.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

1 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 orange
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Mix the dry ingredients well before adding wet ingredients for the best texture.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs, lemon zest, and orange zest, mixing until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the lemon and orange juices. Gently fold until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy this cake with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!

Pro Tips

Try using different citrus fruits like lime or grapefruit for a unique twist on this cake. The recipe is very forgiving, so feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors!

Storage Tips

This cake retains its moisture remarkably well, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you prefer it to last longer, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that chilling may alter the texture slightly, making it denser. To serve after refrigeration, allow it to come back to room temperature for the best eating experience.

For even longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bring it back to room temperature before serving. This method helps maintain the moistness and flavor.

Serving Ideas

While its delightful flavor stands on its own, serving this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese can take it to another level. The creaminess contrasts beautifully with the moist crumb and adds a luxurious finish to your dessert. For an extra citrus boost, you could also infuse the whipped cream with a splash of orange or lemon juice.

Consider adding fresh berries or a citrus compote on the side for a pop of color and flavor to your dessert plate. The tartness of the berries harmonizes perfectly with the cake’s sweetness, creating a stunning presentation and a complementary flavor profile that will impress your friends during your Galentine's gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought olive oil?

Yes, but for the best flavor, opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that can be used for baking.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs perfectly with fresh whipped cream, ice cream, or a light fruit compote.