Easy Olive Oil Cake with Zesty Citrus Glaze for Bright Mornings

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a home-baked cake that feels both indulgent and light. The moment I sliced into this Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze, the bright zing of lemon and orange danced alongside the cake’s moist, tender crumb, creating a flavor harmony that surprises and delights. What makes this cake truly special is its simplicity and versatility—easy enough for a weeknight treat, yet elegant enough to impress guests without stress. Whether you’re tired of the same old desserts or craving a fresh twist on a classic, this cake brings a zesty brightness that’s perfect any time of year. Grab your citrus and olive oil; you’re about to discover a cake that tastes like sunshine on a plate!

Why choose Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze?

Unmatched Moistness: Olive oil keeps this cake incredibly tender and moist without heaviness. Bright Citrus Zing: The glaze bursts with fresh lemon and orange for a vibrant finish. Effortless Elegance: Simple ingredients come together quickly for a bakery-style treat at home. Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime pick-me-up. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: A refreshing alternative that impresses both family and guests with every bite.

Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze Ingredients

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – Use for a tender crumb; sift to keep cake light and airy.
Granulated sugar – Balances the subtle fruitiness of olive oil with just the right sweetness.
Extra virgin olive oil – Chosen for its fruity, rich flavor that boosts moistness in the Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze.
Large eggs – Help bind ingredients and add richness for a soft texture.
Baking powder – Provides the gentle rise necessary for a fluffy cake.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Whole milk or buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang to complement citrus notes.
Vanilla extract – Infuses warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.

For the Citrus Glaze

Fresh lemon juice – Brings a bright, zesty punch that livens up the glaze.
Fresh orange juice – Adds sweetness and complexity, balancing tart lemon perfectly.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze while creating a smooth, glossy finish.
Zest of lemon and orange – Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor in every bite.

How to Make Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze

Preheat oven: Preheat to 350°F, position rack center. Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an easy release of your golden olive oil cake.
Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. The mixture should look airy and light, ensuring a tender crumb.
Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs until pale. Slowly drizzle in olive oil and vanilla, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Add milk and dry mix: Fold in milk gently, then gradually incorporate dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; batter should be thick, silky, and buttery in hue.
Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan, smooth top. Bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool cake: Cool cake in pan for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool completely before glazing for best results.

For the Citrus Glaze:

Mix glaze: Whisk lemon juice, orange juice, and powdered sugar until smooth. Zest adds specks of color; mixture should be pourable yet slightly thick.
Glaze cake: Place cake on a sheet to catch drips. Slowly pour glaze over top, letting it cascade down sides for a bright, glossy finish.

Optional: Garnish with extra citrus zest for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, which helps develop its moistness and depth. Just mix the dry and wet ingredients, combine them, and store the batter in an airtight container. Bake it the next day whenever you’re ready for a delightful treat. Additionally, you can make the citrus glaze up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in the fridge in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to serve, re-whisk the glaze and pour it over the cooled cake for a fresh, zesty finish that’s just as delicious as if made on the same day!

What to Serve with Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze?

Imagine a sunlit morning filled with laughter, the air perfumed with citrus, and your loved ones delighting in a slice of this exquisite cake.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries and strawberries adds a burst of flavor that complements the zesty glaze beautifully.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt provides a velvety contrast, enhancing the cake’s lightness while adding a touch of tang. Enjoy it as a delightful pairing that turns your cake into a refreshing treat.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, offers a soothing balance to the citrus zest, making every bite more invigorating.
Lemon Sorbet: This frozen dessert echoes the citrus theme, providing a cool and refreshing contrast to the warm cake—perfect for a summer gathering!
Almond Biscotti: The slight crunchiness of biscottis paired with the lush cake creates a symphony of textures, making for an ideal afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
Citrus Salad: A light salad of oranges with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of mint enhances the citrus notes in the cake, creating a harmonious medley of flavors.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or lime—it lifts the flavors while keeping it light and bubbly.
Honey-Walnut Spread: A rich spread made with honey, cream cheese, and crushed walnuts adds an indulgent touch that complements the cake’s moist texture wonderfully.
Chocolate Espresso Truffles: For chocolate lovers, these rich truffles offer a decadent yet balanced pairing, enhancing the cake’s flavors with their rich bitterness.

Expert Tips for Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze

Use quality olive oil: Opt for a fruity extra virgin olive oil to enhance the cake’s moistness and deep flavor—avoid any that tastes bitter or harsh.
Don’t overmix batter: Fold dry ingredients gently to keep the crumb tender and avoid a dense texture in your Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze.
Room temperature eggs: Using eggs at room temp helps them blend smoothly, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.
Fresh citrus matters: Always use freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice for the glaze to achieve that vibrant, zesty punch.
Cool cake fully before glazing: Applying glaze to a warm cake can cause it to melt and run off too quickly, losing that beautiful shine.
Catch glaze drips: Place the cake on parchment or a tray to catch excess glaze, making cleanup easier and keeping your presentation neat.

How to Store and Freeze Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld without drying out.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It will keep well for about a week; just ensure it’s sealed to prevent absorption of odors.

Freezer: To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Enjoy your Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a couple of hours. Enjoy at room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for a delightful treat!

Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze experience!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a light cake that caters to gluten sensitivities. Many blends work wonderfully; just ensure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.
Herb-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the batter for an aromatic twist that complements the citrus beautifully. The infusion brings a lovely depth to the cake’s flavor profile.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture and a delightful crunch. Not only does this enhance flavor, but it also adds a beautiful presentation when sprinkled on top of the glaze.
Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond or oat milk and use a plant-based yogurt or non-dairy alternative in place of eggs for a wonderfully moist cake that everyone can enjoy.
Citrus Trio: Incorporate grapefruit or lime juice and zest in addition to the lemon and orange for a vibrant citrus explosion that takes flavor to another level. The mix adds complexity and brightness you’ll love.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the glaze for an indulgent touch that contrasts beautifully with the bright citrus.
Spicy Zing: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the batter for an unexpected kick that pairs surprisingly well with the citrus flavors. Just a hint of spice can elevate the taste sensations!
Berry Bliss: Top the glazed cake with fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries for a burst of color and flavor. This not only adds a refreshing juicy element but also makes for a stunning presentation you can’t resist.

Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best olive oil for Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze?
I recommend a fruity extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor and moistness. Avoid oils that taste bitter or overly peppery, as they can overpower the cake’s delicate citrus notes.

Can I store Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze at room temperature?
Absolutely! Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its moist, tender crumb and lets the citrus glaze meld beautifully without drying out.

Is it possible to freeze Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze? How?
Yes, freezing is a great option! Slice the cake first, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap to lock in freshness. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Your cake will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or a couple of hours at room temp, then warm slightly in the microwave if you like a cozy treat.

What should I do if my cake turns out dense rather than light and fluffy?
No worries—it’s a common hiccup! Make sure not to overmix the batter; gently fold dry ingredients to keep it airy. Also, use room-temperature eggs for better emulsification and a fluffier texture. Lastly, check your baking powder’s freshness; expired leavening won’t give the proper rise.

Is Olive Oil Cake with Citrus Glaze safe for pets or people with allergies?
This cake contains common allergens like eggs, milk, and wheat flour, so it’s best avoided if allergies exist. Also, ingredients like citrus and olive oil might upset sensitive pets, so keep this dessert just for people to enjoy safely!