Galentine's Citrus Olive Oil Cake

Name: Galentine's Citrus Olive Oil Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup olive oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 orange; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 orange; Juice of 1 lemon; Powdered sugar for dusting; Fresh fruit for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking, and this Galentine's Citrus Olive Oil Cake has become one of my favorites for celebrating friendship. It's light, moist, and bursting with citrus flavor, thanks to the addition of fresh orange and lemon zest. The olive oil gives it a unique richness that elevates the cake to a whole new level. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to put together! Perfect for a Galentine’s day gathering or any time you want to brighten someone's day with a homemade treat.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:26:31.255Z

When I first made this cake for a gathering, I was amazed at how quickly it flew off the plate! The combination of citrus and olive oil creates a flavor profile that's both refreshing and indulgent. One important tip I learned is to use high-quality olive oil, as it truly enhances the cake's flavor. This cake is perfect for a casual get-together or a special occasion, and I promise your friends will ask for the recipe!

I often pair this cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar and fresh fruit to add a pop of color. It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be served at room temperature. I also love how versatile it is—if you want, you can swap out the citrus for your favorite flavor, like almond or vanilla, for a delicious twist!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh citrus flavors that awaken your senses
Luxuriously moist texture from olive oil for a memorable bite
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers

      

The Importance of Olive Oil

Using high-quality olive oil is crucial in this cake as it not only contributes to the moisture but also enhances the flavor profile. The grassy, peppery notes of the oil complement the citrus, creating a depth that butter just can't match. When selecting your olive oil, look for extra virgin varieties for the best results. If you are sensitive to flavor, a lighter olive oil can also work, but it may not impart the same richness to your cake's overall taste.

Additionally, the olive oil makes this cake lactose-free, making it suitable for those with dairy intolerances. This opens the recipe up to a wider array of diners, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice with their friends. Remember, the quality of the olive oil will directly affect the final flavor, so it’s worth spending a little extra for a good one.

Zest It Up

The zest of both the orange and lemon is a pivotal component of this cake, providing an aromatic punch that brightens the entire dessert. When zesting, make sure to only remove the outer, colorful layer of the skin using a microplane or zester to avoid the bitter white pith underneath. This technique not only enhances the cake's flavor but also fills your kitchen with a delightful fragrance during baking.

Don't forget that zest adds natural oils, contributing to the cake's overall moisture and flavor. If you find yourself out of fresh citrus, you can use store-bought citrus zest or zest from the freezer, but nothing compares to the freshness of the real thing.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup olive oil
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 orange
Juice of 1 lemon

For the Topping (optional)

Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh fruit for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.

Add Zest and Juice

Stir the zest of the orange and lemon, along with their juices, into the wet mixture.

Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

Pour and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with fresh fruit if desired.

This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract to the batter.

Storing and Freezing

This Galentine's Citrus Olive Oil Cake stores beautifully at room temperature for up to three days when wrapped in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

To refresh the cake after freezing, consider briefly warming individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds – this will help bring back its moistness. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive touch, you can serve your cake with a simple fruit salad or a citrus compote that complements the cake’s flavor. Fresh berries or slices of citrus fruit not only add visual appeal but also provide a nice tartness that pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider a glaze made from powdered sugar and citrus juice poured over the top once the cake has cooled. This will add an additional layer of sweetness and a beautiful finish. Whatever your choice, this cake is versatile enough to shine on its own or be dressed up for any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

While olive oil offers a unique flavor, you can use other mild oils like canola or vegetable oil.

→ How can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, making sure it includes xanthan gum.

→ Can I add extra citrus zest?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.