Sweet oranges meet the fruity, rounded notes of extra virgin olive oil in this reliable orange and olive oil cake. The inclusion of almond flour adds a subtle nutty depth and a moist, tender crumb that stays soft for days, making it a dependable option for afternoon tea or a casual weekend brunch.
As it bakes, the kitchen fills with the scent of citrus, which carries through to the bright, silky buttercream frosting. Because the batter relies on a simple mix of oat milk and whisked eggs, the process is straightforward and comes together quickly without requiring any complex techniques.
A final dusting of fresh orange zest provides a sharp, aromatic finish that cuts through the sweetness of the icing. It is the kind of reliable bake that pairs just as well with a strong cup of black coffee as it does with a glass of tea when you have guests dropping by.
Read Full StoryIf you love the bright, aromatic profile of citrus-infused bakes, there are several other ways to showcase this fruit in your kitchen. For a slightly different texture, try this easy orange and pistachio bake which adds a lovely nutty crunch to the tender crumb. Alternatively, if you want to lean into the floral notes of citrus, an orange blossom semolina cake offers a beautiful, fragrant alternative that works perfectly for afternoon tea or dessert.
Key Ingredients
- Olive oil: Provides the characteristic moist texture and subtle savory richness to the cake base.
- Orange juice: Infuses the sponge and the icing with a bright, citrusy acidity.
- Almond flour: Adds a delicate nutty flavor and a tender crumb structure to the cake.
- Orange zest: Used as a fragrant garnish to enhance the aromatic orange profile of the dessert.
- Eggs: Act as the essential binding agent to provide structure and lift to the cake.
- Unsalted butter: Forms the creamy, stable base for the sweet icing layer.
More Citrus-Forward Cakes to Bake
- Classic orange cake: A reliable, straightforward bake that highlights the pure sweetness of fresh oranges.
- Whole citrus cake: By using the entire fruit, this recipe creates a punchy, zest-forward flavor profile that really stands out.
- Ultra-moist orange sponge: Perfect for those who prioritize a delicate, airy crumb without sacrificing any of the fruit's brightness.
Curated by Aprilia Wanson in Austin, TX — I research and organize easy recipes so you can cook with what you have. More about how I create content →