A Decadent Yet Nutritious Gluten-Free Treat
This moist, dense olive oil cake is the ultimate treat for those who follow a gluten-free diet. Bursting with flavor from fresh lemon zest and juice, it’s sweetened with honey for a touch of natural sweetness. What makes this cake extra special is that it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like olive oil, eggs, almonds, and vitamin E.
Benefits of Key Ingredients
Olive oil is the star ingredient in this recipe. Known as a healthy fat, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids that may help lower cholesterol and risk of chronic disease. The oil also provides valuable vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage and inflammation.
Eggs add protein to keep you full as well as vitamin D, an essential nutrient for immune and bone health. Ground almonds give the cake more fiber, healthy fats, protein, magnesium and vitamin E. Together, these wholesome ingredients make for a nourishing, gluten-free cake you can feel good about enjoying.
A Simple Method Anyone Can Master
Part of what makes this cake so appealing is how easy it is to make. There’s no complicated techniques or fancy equipment required. After whisking wet and dry ingredients separately, simply combine everything until just blended, then pour into a pan and bake. You don’t even need an electric mixer to make this recipe.
With just 10 minutes of prep time, this olive oil cake can be in the oven baking in no time. While it bakes, the house fills with an irresistible lemon-y, nutty aroma. Let it cool slightly before slicing into tender, rich pieces.
Customize It Your Way
The basic olive oil cake recipe lends itself well to customization. Stir in a teaspoon of orange or lime zest instead of lemon for a subtle citrus twist. For extra indulgence, top slices with whipped cream and fresh berries. Chopped nuts, coconut flakes or chocolate chips also make tasty add-ins to the batter.
You can make this cake completely dairy-free by swapping the eggs for flax or chia eggs. For a pretty presentation, dust the finished cake with powdered sugar or glaze the top with a simple lemon icing.
An Ideal Treat for Guests
When hosting brunch or tea, this olive oil cake is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Its simple, wholesome ingredients mean it’s safe for many different diets. Keep slices small for an elegant accompaniment to fruit and tea, or present the cake whole for a sweet grand finale.
For potlucks or birthday parties, this cake travels well without the need for frosting. The moist crumb holds up beautifully, and many won’t even realize it’s gluten-free. Bring it along to share something nutritious and delicious with the important people in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of olive oil works best?
An extra virgin olive oil gives the richest flavor, but any kind works well, including light or pure olive oil.
Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, you can use 3/4 cup honey instead of the granulated sugar. The cake will have a slightly floral taste.
What if I don’t have almond flour?
You can substitute any nut flour like cashew or hazelnut. For a seed flour, try buckwheat or sunflower seed flour instead.
Can I bake this cake in a loaf pan?
Absolutely! Just watch the bake time and insert a toothpick to check for doneness. Start checking at 35 minutes.
What is the nutrition information?
One slice (1/8 cake) contains approximately 160 calories, 12 g fat, 33 mg sodium, 5 g protein, 2 g fiber and 5 g sugar.
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