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This Citrus Olive Oil Cake topped with a citrus cream is a delightful and moist dessert perfect for any occasion, especially in winter. It combines the richness of olive oil with the bright, refreshing flavors of citrus. This easy-to-make cake can be decorated with citrus curd, whipped cream, and flowers, making it a beautiful addition to your dessert table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Citrus Olive Oil Cake:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 large eggs
¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ cup plain yogurt
⅓ cup orange juice
2 tbsp orange zest
1 cup sugar
Pinch of salt
2 tsp vanilla paste or extract (orange extract can be used)

For the Citrus Curd:

2 eggs
2 egg yolks
¾ cup sugar (reduce to ½ cup for a less sweet curd)
½ cup orange juice
1 tbsp orange zest
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Pinch of salt
½ tsp orange extract (optional)

For the Whipped Cream:

1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla paste or orange extract (optional)

Directions

Citrus Curd:

In a medium bowl, combine sugar and orange zest, massaging the zest into the sugar to release its oils.
In a saucepan, add egg yolks, whole eggs, salt, orange juice, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Whisk well to combine.
Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and stir in butter. Strain the mixture to remove clumps.
Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Citrus Olive Oil Cake:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, combine sugar and orange zest. Massage the zest into the sugar to release the oils.
Add eggs and vanilla, whisking for 30 seconds to 1 minute until light and fluffy.
Stir in olive oil, orange juice, and yogurt. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, sift the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-13 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Whipped Cream:

Beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar until medium stiff peaks form.
Add vanilla paste or orange extract if desired.

Assembling the Cake:

Once the cake has cooled completely, top with whipped cream.
Dollop chilled citrus curd over the whipped cream and spread gently.
Decorate with dried orange slices, orange zest, and edible flowers for an extra touch.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated)

Calories: 300–350 kcal
Fat: 20–25g
- Saturated Fat: 3–5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15–20g
Carbohydrates: 35–40g
- Fiber: 1–2g
- Sugars: 20–25g
Protein: 4–5g
Cholesterol: 50–70mg
Sodium: 50–100mg
Vitamin A: 8–10% DV
Vitamin C: 15–20% DV
Calcium: 4–6% DV
Iron: 4–5% DV

Why Olive Oil in Cakes?

The inclusion of olive oil in cakes might seem unconventional to some, but it brings a depth of flavor that butter simply can’t replicate. Olive oil, especially extra virgin, adds a fruity, savory richness to the cake’s texture, making it incredibly moist. It’s also a healthier fat choice compared to butter, contributing monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health. Olive oil cakes are common in Mediterranean baking traditions, where olive oil is a staple ingredient. When paired with the citrus elements in this recipe, olive oil enhances the natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit, creating a balanced and unforgettable dessert.

The Role of Citrus in the Cake

The citrus flavors in this cake are key to its freshness and vibrancy. Orange juice and zest infuse the cake batter with a burst of citrusy goodness, which is further highlighted by the citrus curd and whipped cream. The zest, in particular, helps intensify the citrus aroma, adding a fragrant, flavorful quality that complements the richness of the olive oil. Citrus not only adds brightness but also balances the cake’s sweetness, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Orange, lemon, and even lime zest are frequently used in Mediterranean desserts to impart a fresh, zesty quality that cuts through the richness of oils and creams.

The Citrus Curd: A Sweet and Tangy Addition

The citrus curd is the star of this dessert, offering a rich, tangy contrast to the sweet cake. Its smooth texture and vibrant citrus flavor create an indulgent topping that perfectly complements the light, fluffy cake. Citrus curd is a versatile topping that can be used in a variety of desserts, from tarts to scones, and in this recipe, it adds an extra layer of depth to the cake. The combination of eggs, sugar, butter, and fresh citrus juice creates a creamy curd that balances the sweetness of the cake while providing a refreshing, tart contrast.

Whipped Cream: The Perfect Finishing Touch

No cake is complete without a light, airy topping, and this whipped cream is the perfect complement to the citrus cake and curd. Whipped cream serves as a neutral base that allows the bold flavors of the citrus to shine through. It provides a soft, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich, zesty curd and the dense olive oil cake. The addition of vanilla or orange extract enhances the cream’s flavor, tying all the components of the cake together. Whipped cream is also incredibly versatile, and it can be adjusted to suit your taste by adding various flavorings like orange extract or even a splash of liqueur.

Decorating the Cake

One of the best aspects of this Citrus Olive Oil Cake is its versatility when it comes to decoration. The cake itself has a simple elegance, but you can elevate its presentation with a few thoughtful touches. After layering the whipped cream and citrus curd, consider adding a decorative flourish with dried orange slices, fresh citrus zest, or edible flowers. These not only add visual appeal but also a burst of flavor and fragrance that ties together the citrus theme of the cake. The dried orange slices can be easily made by slowly dehydrating fresh orange slices in the oven, creating a rustic and flavorful garnish.

Healthier Dessert Option

For those seeking a slightly healthier dessert, this Citrus Olive Oil Cake is a great option. The use of olive oil in place of butter reduces the amount of saturated fat in the cake, and the addition of yogurt offers a creamy texture without the heaviness of cream. Citrus fruits like oranges are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making this cake a treat that’s not only delicious but also a bit more health-conscious than many traditional cakes. Additionally, you can control the sweetness of the cake and the citrus curd, adjusting sugar levels to suit your preferences.

Perfect for All Occasions

This cake is incredibly versatile and can be served for various occasions. Its bright, citrusy flavor makes it especially fitting for winter gatherings, offering a refreshing contrast to the often heavy flavors of the season. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday meal, or a special celebration, this cake will bring a touch of sophistication and joy to the occasion. The cake’s simple ingredients and elegant presentation make it suitable for both casual and formal settings, while its unique combination of flavors guarantees it will be a hit with guests of all ages.

A Gift of Citrus Freshness

When thinking about seasonal desserts, many consider rich, heavy options, but the Citrus Olive Oil Cake offers a lighter, yet indulgent alternative. Its delicate crumb and bright citrus flavor make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy refreshing desserts. This cake is also a wonderful option for gifting, as its beautiful presentation and unique flavor will impress any recipient. Whether you’re sending it to a friend as a thoughtful gesture or bringing it to a potluck, this cake stands out as both a culinary treat and a visual delight.

Conclusion

The Citrus Olive Oil Cake with citrus cream is a dessert that delights the senses with its bright, citrusy flavor and moist texture. The combination of olive oil, citrus, and whipped cream creates a perfect balance of richness and refreshment, while the citrus curd adds an indulgent, tangy finish. This cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an aesthetically pleasing addition to any dessert table. Its ease of preparation, versatility in decoration, and ability to suit various occasions make it a must-try for any home baker. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.