Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup olive oil; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk

Highlighted under: Delightful Desserts

When I crave something sweet yet simple, I turn to my Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake. The combination of rich chocolate and smooth olive oil results in a moist and flavorful dessert that truly satisfies. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it's an afternoon snack or a family gathering. The use of olive oil not only enhances the taste but also makes this cake a bit healthier without sacrificing indulgence. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:37:36.154Z

Every time I bake this Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake, it brings me back to my childhood. I distinctly remember the first time I tried a cake made with olive oil, and I was enamored by its unique taste and texture. I decided to experiment with this recipe, and the result was a delightful balance between the intense chocolate flavor and the subtle fruitiness of the olive oil.

What makes this cake extraordinary is its simplicity and the moisture provided by the olive oil. I’ve learned that not all fats are created equal, and using olive oil gives the cake an irresistible crumb. For an even richer experience, I sometimes add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate, creating a perfect treat that my family can’t resist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh olive oil notes
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Simple ingredients with a quick preparation time

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in the Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake plays a vital role in the final flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides structure, while the cocoa powder imparts that rich chocolate essence. Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa can enhance the cake's depth, giving it a darker hue and more intense flavor. Additionally, the combination of granulated sugar and olive oil contributes to the cake's moistness, while the buttermilk adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Olive oil may seem unusual for a baking recipe, but it adds a unique, fruity note that complements the chocolate perfectly. Plus, it helps keep the cake tender and moist over a longer period compared to butter. If you don’t have olive oil on hand, a light vegetable oil or melted coconut oil can serve as a substitute, but the flavor profile might change slightly. Using full-fat buttermilk is also recommended, as it contributes to a rich texture. In a pinch, you can use a mixture of milk and vinegar as an alternative.

Baking Process Insights

When mixing your ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the dry and wet components. This allows gluten to develop too much, resulting in a tough cake instead of a fluffy one. Stir just until you no longer see dry flour—some small lumps are okay. The goal is to achieve a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth, which is key in snack cakes.

Baking time is crucial for this cake. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs attached but not wet batter, it’s perfect! Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, so keep an eye on it, especially if your oven runs hot. Once done, let it cool in the pan for a sufficient time before transferring; this helps maintain its shape and prevents cracking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This cake stands beautifully on its own, but you can elevate it with various toppings or accompaniments. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform it into a delightful dessert. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

If you’re looking to play with flavors, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate kick, or fold in mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence. You can also experiment by incorporating spices like cinnamon or sea salt to give it a unique twist. For a more decadent treat, try adding a layer of creamy peanut butter frosting on top—this will definitely satisfy those with a sweet tooth!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your cake:

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup olive oil
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

Make sure to use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your delicious cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan with olive oil or butter.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the sugar and olive oil. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and buttermilk until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy as is or dust with powdered sugar!

This cake is even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of espresso to the batter. It enhances the chocolate without making the cake taste like coffee.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best features of the Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake is its ability to be made ahead of time. Once cooled completely, the cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature and consider warming slices slightly in the microwave for that freshly-baked feel.

Another tip for prepping in advance is to pre-measure your dry ingredients. Combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl and store it in an airtight container until you're ready to bake. This can save time on a busy day and make the baking process even quicker.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake domes too much in the center, this can often be due to an overly hot oven. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure your oven runs at the correct temperature, as this can greatly affect your baking results. Additionally, make sure your eggs are at room temperature, as this allows for better emulsification with the olive oil, resulting in a more uniform batter.

For those who find their cakes sometimes stick to the pan, make sure to properly grease the cake pan, and consider adding a layer of parchment paper on the bottom. This extra step guarantees that the cake releases easily after baking, maintaining that beautiful shape. If you do end up with any cracks or uneven tops, a light frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar can disguise any imperfections beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute with canola or vegetable oil, but olive oil enhances the flavor.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I pair with this cake?

Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious treat.