Print

Orange Olive Oil Cake (Easy One-Bowl Recipe)

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This easy orange olive oil cake is moist, tender, and full of bright citrus flavor, thanks to fresh orange zest and juice. Made in one bowl with no mixer required, it features a beautiful layer of thinly sliced oranges baked into the top for an elegant finish.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 whole orange, scrubbed well, thinly sliced (about 200250 g)
  • 2 medium oranges, for 2 tablespoons zest and 1/4 cup juice
  • 1 cup (240 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) orange liqueur (or additional orange juice)
  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • Optional: confectioners’ sugar, fresh berries, extra orange zest for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. Slice 1 orange into 1/8-inch rounds. Arrange slices on the bottom of the pan in a single overlapping layer.
  3. Zest and juice the remaining 2 oranges to get 2 tablespoons zest and 1/4 cup juice.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs until light and slightly foamy. Add olive oil, vanilla, orange zest, orange juice, and orange liqueur (or more juice). Whisk until combined.
  5. Add flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir gently just until no dry flour remains—do not overmix.
  6. Pour the batter into the pan over the orange slices. Tap lightly to remove air bubbles.
  7. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then run a knife around the edge, release the pan, and carefully invert onto a plate. Peel off parchment and cool completely.
  9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and garnish with berries or extra zest if desired. Slice and serve.

Notes

  • Use a mild, fruity olive oil for best flavor balance.
  • Replace orange liqueur with more juice for an alcohol-free version.
  • To make ahead, store the cooled cake wrapped and add toppings before serving.
  • Let the cake cool fully before inverting to avoid sticking or breaking.
  • Customize with citrus variations, spices, or chopped nuts for extra texture.

Nutrition