Chocolate Olive Oil Cake with Orange Zest
Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful dessert that dances between rich chocolate and the zesty brightness of orange! This Chocolate Olive Oil Cake is not only incredibly moist and flavorful, but it also showcases the delightful interplay of cocoa and olive oil enhanced by the refreshing notes of orange zest. Imagine serving this cake at your next gathering or enjoying it with a cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon; it’s bound to impress everyone! If you want to receive more delightful recipes like this one, feel free to subscribe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! The deep, fudgy flavor of the chocolate combined with the subtle fruitiness of the olive oil creates a unique taste that’s utterly irresistible. Anyone can whip this up, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Plus, it’s family-friendly, so get the kids involved in the baking process! What could be better than sharing a delicious dessert made with love?
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 large orange
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Necessary Tools
– 9-inch round cake pan
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Sifter
– Spatula
– Toothpick or cake tester
– Wire rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Don’t have olive oil on hand? You can substitute it with melted coconut oil, which will add a different yet delightful flavor. For a dairy-free version, try almond or oat milk in place of whole milk. Feel free to add a handful of dark chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey punch, or swap the orange zest for lemon for a citrus twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential for achieving a smooth texture!
3. In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until combined.
4. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until everything is well blended and smooth.
5. Pour the luscious batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula—because we want it as perfect as possible!
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Optional: For a lovely finishing touch, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a simple chocolate glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a citrus salad that complements the orange zest beautifully. Enjoy it with espresso or a sweet dessert wine for a sophisticated touch!
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing experience.
– Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
– Keep an eye on the cake during baking; ovens can vary, so check on it around the 30-minute mark.
Storing and Reheating
This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you’d like to enjoy a slice later, simply warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, and it will taste as good as fresh!
FAQ Section
– Can I use a different type of flour? Yes! You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, though the texture may be slightly denser.
– Can I freeze this cake? Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Conclusion
To sum it up, this Chocolate Olive Oil Cake with Orange Zest is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is simple to make and utterly impressive. It pays homage to the beauty of chocolate and citrus in a way that will have your guests swooning. If you make this beautiful cake, I’d love to hear about it! Share your photos or tag me on Instagram or Pinterest!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving:
Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 5g
Sugar: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy your decadent treat!
