Chocolate Cake With Olive Oil

Name: Chocolate Cake With Olive Oil
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup warm water; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Delightful Desserts

I absolutely love making this Chocolate Cake with Olive Oil whenever I want a comforting treat. The combination of rich cocoa and velvety olive oil creates a uniquely moist and flavorful cake that never fails to impress. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for both cozy nights in and special gatherings. Plus, using olive oil adds a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the cake beyond the ordinary. You won’t believe how delightful this cake is until you try it yourself!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:25:15.418Z

When I first tried making a cake with olive oil, I was pleasantly surprised by the result. The moist texture and unique flavor profile of the oil complemented the chocolate beautifully. I've experimented with various cocoa powders, and I’ve found that a high-quality dark cocoa brings an intense chocolate flavor that is simply divine.

One of my favorite tips is to let the cake cool completely before serving. This not only helps to set the flavors but also makes it easier to slice. Drizzling a little more olive oil on top before serving adds an unexpected twist that my friends adore!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh olive oil essence
Incredibly moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth
Quick and simple to make, perfect for any occasion

The Importance of Ingredient Quality

The quality of your olive oil will greatly influence the flavor of this cake. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich, fruity notes that complement the chocolate without overpowering it. If you have a favorite brand, stick with it! Alternatively, for a slightly different flavor profile, you can experiment with nut oils, such as hazelnut or almond, which also pair beautifully with chocolate.

Using high-quality cocoa powder is equally crucial. Look for Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, richer flavor, or use natural cocoa if you prefer a more acidic chocolate note. The cocoa type you choose can significantly affect the final cake's taste and texture, so choose wisely to enhance the overall experience.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in a chocolate cake relies heavily on proper mixing techniques. When combining wet and dry ingredients, blend just until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while undermixing can leave pockets of flour. Aim for a batter that is smooth and slightly glossy; this signals that you have incorporated all ingredients properly.

When baking, a good oven thermometer is your best friend. Ovens can often be off by 25°F (approximately 14°C), affecting the bake time and texture. Check for doneness around 25 minutes by jiggling the pan slightly—if the center wobbles only slightly, it's done! Allow it to cool adequately in the pan to prevent crumbling when transferring.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delectable chocolate cake:

Cake Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 cup warm water
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Chocolate Cake:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with olive oil.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, warm water, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

For an extra touch, you can frost it with your favorite icing or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips

Experiment with adding a pinch of sea salt on top just before serving to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This chocolate cake can be stored at room temperature, covered with a cake dome or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to three days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months—just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying again.

For serving, dust the top with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant touch. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience further. Fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also provide a nice contrast to the cake's rich flavor.

Variations to Try

While the olive oil chocolate cake is delightful on its own, consider mixing in ingredients like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans bring a nice crunch, while dark or white chocolate chips can create an indulgent surprise with each bite.

For a twist, try infusing the batter with spices like cinnamon or espresso powder, which can enhance the chocolate flavor subtly. Adjust the cocoa powder amount accordingly if you decide to add those additional ingredients, ensuring that the overall balance of dry ingredients remains consistent.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable or canola oil, but the flavor will differ.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature.

→ What can I add for additional flavor?

Consider adding orange zest or a splash of espresso for enhanced flavor depth!