If you are looking for a dessert that balances vibrant citrus notes with a warm, exotic hint of spice, the Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Recipe is your answer. This cake is a tender, moist delight where the richness of extra virgin olive oil meets fragrant cardamom and zesty orange, creating a flavor explosion in each bite. It’s a fantastic option for both casual tea times and special occasions, appealing to anyone who appreciates a sophisticated twist on classic cakes. Once you try this recipe, it’s hard not to make it a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but chosen to work beautifully together, ensuring the perfect balance of moisture, flavor, and texture. From the aromatic cardamom to the bright orange juice and zest, each element plays a vital role in bringing this cake to life.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb when combined with the right leavening agents.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leaveners help the cake rise beautifully while keeping it light and fluffy.
- Ground cardamom: A warming spice that infuses the cake with a subtle exotic fragrance that elevates the citrus flavors.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and boosting the spices.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while contributing to a tender texture.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds moistness and a unique fruity depth that sets this cake apart from traditional butter cakes.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness, helping bind the ingredients together.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice: Imparts bright citrus flavor and moisture.
- Orange zest: Adds intense orange aroma and a pop of color.
- Plain yogurt (or sour cream): Contributes tanginess and extra moisture, keeping the cake luscious.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a sweet floral note.
- Powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a simple, sweet coating that enhances the orange cardamom notes.
How to Make Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Cake Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to make sure the cake doesn’t stick and releases effortlessly once baked.
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cardamom, and salt in a medium bowl. This combines the leaveners and spices evenly, which is crucial for a consistent rise and flavor throughout the cake.
Step 3: Combining the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the sugar and extra virgin olive oil until well combined. The olive oil will give the batter a silky texture. Then add the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each to create an airy batter. Stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, yogurt, and vanilla extract, bringing a vibrant moistness coupled with rich aroma.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until no flour traces remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cake dense rather than delightfully tender.
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step is where your kitchen starts smelling like a cozy citrus spice heaven.
Step 6: Cooling
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set the structure slightly, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and makes glazing easier.
Step 7: Preparing the Optional Glaze
For an extra layer of flavor and sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar, a few tablespoons of orange juice, and a pinch of ground cardamom. Adjust the thickness by adding more juice or sugar until it reaches a drizzling consistency.
Step 8: Glazing the Cake
Once completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the cake, letting it form delicate trails that add a glossy finish and amplify the orange-cardamom magic in every slice.
How to Serve Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or toasted almonds works beautifully as a crunchy contrast. Fresh orange segments or thin orange peel curls also make visually stunning and flavorful garnishes that brighten the presentation.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a more sophisticated touch, serving alongside a cup of warm chai or spiced tea complements the cardamom notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering slices with mascarpone and fresh berries to create a trifle-like dessert. Or serve individual portions with a drizzle of honey and a mint leaf on top for an elegant single-serving treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain moisture and freshness, keeping every bite as delightful as the first.
Freezing
If you want to save the cake for later, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can keep its flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or place them in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-10 minutes. This brings back the soft texture and aroma, making the cake feel freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute the olive oil with another oil?
Yes, but the unique fruity flavor of extra virgin olive oil is part of what makes this cake special. If substituting, use a mild-flavored oil like grapeseed or avocado oil to maintain a similar richness without overpowering the spices and citrus.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice and zest?
Absolutely! Fresh orange juice and zest provide vibrant, natural citrus oils and acidity that canned juice or bottled zest cannot replicate. They are key to achieving the bright, fresh flavor characteristic of this Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Recipe.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum. However, the texture may slightly differ from the original, but the flavors will remain delicious.
What if I don’t have yogurt or sour cream?
You can substitute plain yogurt or sour cream with buttermilk or even a mix of milk and a teaspoon of lemon juice, which will provide similar moisture and slight tanginess.
Is the cardamom flavor strong in this cake?
No, it is perfectly balanced. The ground cardamom offers a gentle, warm spice that complements the orange without overwhelming it. You can adjust the amount slightly depending on your personal preference for spice intensity.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Recipe is such a joy to bake and even more satisfying to share. Its vibrant flavors and moist texture never fail to impress. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just to treat yourself, this cake will fill your kitchen with warmth and your moments with happiness. Give it a try and discover your new favorite citrus-spiced dessert!
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Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orange Cardamom Olive Oil Cake is a moist and fragrant dessert that beautifully combines the zesty brightness of fresh orange with the warm, aromatic spice of cardamom. Made with extra virgin olive oil, yogurt, and a hint of vanilla, this cake offers a tender crumb and a luscious texture. Finished with an optional orange-cardamom glaze, it’s perfect for a delightful afternoon treat or a sophisticated dessert.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze (Optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cardamom, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and extra virgin olive oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, plain yogurt, and vanilla extract to create a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake has a golden-brown top.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze: For the optional glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and ground cardamom (if using) in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more orange juice or powdered sugar.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the cake has fully cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream for the yogurt if preferred; both add moisture and tang to the cake.
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Make sure to not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely citrusy sweetness and enhances the cardamom flavor.
- If you prefer, you can double the glaze ingredients for a thicker coating.
