The Beauty of Olive Oil Cakes: A Mediterranean Staple
Why Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Baking?
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) isn’t just for savory dishes—it’s also a terrific ingredient for creating moist, tender cakes with a unique depth of flavor. Unlike butter, EVOO adds a fruity richness that complements citrus-forward recipes like this orange cake. Additionally, its natural fats help keep the cake soft and fresh for days.
Benefits of Baking with Olive Oil:
- Flavor Fusion: The subtle peppery and fruity notes of EVOO pair beautifully with citrus and tropical fruits.
- Healthier Alternative: Rich in monounsaturated fats, EVOO provides a heart-healthy alternative to butter.
- Enhanced Texture: The oil ensures the cake remains moist without becoming greasy.
Using All of the Orange
Using the entire orange, peel and all, gives this cake a bold, citrusy flavor. The peel adds a slight bitterness, creating a well-rounded contrast to the sweetness of the cake. This technique, common in Mediterranean desserts, maximizes the fruit’s flavor while reducing food waste.
Pro Tip:
To reduce the bitterness of the peel, you can blanch the orange pieces in boiling water for 1–2 minutes before blending.
Homemade Jam: The Perfect Cake Topping
Making your own jam might seem intimidating, but it’s surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. This mango and strawberry jam brings a tropical twist to the classic orange cake, adding a balance of sweetness and tartness.
Tips for Making Perfect Jam:
1. Use Ripe Fruits: The natural sugars in ripe fruit reduce the need for added sweeteners.
2. Low Heat is Key: Simmering the fruit slowly helps to preserve its natural flavors and ensures the jam thickens properly.
3. Texture Variation: Mash the fruit lightly during cooking if you prefer a chunkier jam.
Presentation and Pairings
Drizzle a small amount of honey over the cake slice for extra sweetness. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert.
A Healthier Twist: Substitutions to Try
For those seeking a lighter version or alternative ingredients, here are some minor adjustments you can make:
- Replace Sugar with Honey or Maple Syrup: Adjust the quantities to taste.
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: This adds a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content.
- Experiment with Plant-Based Yogurts: Coconut or almond yogurt works well for dairy-free options.
Cake Recipes with Olive Oil
You may be wondering whether olive oil is good to use in more cake and dessert recipes? The good news is that: yes, it is! It’s not only a healthier and more wholesome option, it also brings its own flavor twist to proceedings. Take this Blueberry Bread recipe as a prime example. Made with La Española Classic Olive Oil, fresh blueberries, and orange juice, this refreshingly fruity cake is one you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a dessert option that’s rich in flavor and sweet to the taste, try our Classic Cheesecake recipe. Creamy on top and crunchy on the bottom, this tried and true dessert favorite always goes down a treat.
For more cooking tips and recipe ideas be sure to check out our blog.