Ina garten olive oil cake – Easy Kitchen Guide

By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on June 15, 2023 | Last Updated on August 19, 2023

Indulge your taste buds and embark on a culinary adventure as we dive into the delectable world of Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake. With its captivating aroma of extra virgin olive oil, this cake is a true testament to the art of baking. 

As we unlock the secrets behind this mouthwatering creation, you’ll discover why it has become a cherished recipe.

So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to elevate your baking skills to new heights with Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake – a dessert that promises to dazzle your senses and leave you craving more.

What Is Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake?

Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake is a delightful dessert recipe created by the renowned American chef and cookbook author Ina Garten. 

It’s a twist on traditional butter-based cakes, where extra virgin olive oil takes center stage as the primary fat ingredient. 

This substitution adds a unique flavor profile and moistness to the cake, making it a standout treat.

What does it taste like?

In terms of flavor, Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake has a subtle and pleasant fruity taste. The high-quality olive oil used in the recipe imparts a gentle fruitiness that complements the other ingredients. 

However, it’s important to note that the cake typically doesn’t taste strongly of olive oil. Instead, the olive oil adds a subtle nuance that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering it.

In some variations of the recipe, citrus elements like orange zest or lemon juice are included. These citrus notes add a refreshing tang and brightness to the cake, balancing the richness of the olive oil and providing a pleasant contrast.

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How did I first get introduced to Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake?

One lazy Sunday morning, I found myself scrolling through social media, indulging in food videos that always made my mouth water. Among the endless stream of recipes, one caught my eye—an Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake. 

The images showcased a moist and golden cake topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries. Intrigued by the rave reviews and the recipe’s simplicity, I tried it.

How to make Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake?

Making Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake is a straightforward process that doesn’t require any special equipment or skills. All you need are some basic baking tools and ingredients, and you can whip up this show-stopping dessert in no time. 

Here’s the ingredients list you’ll need and the directions on how to make Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: A versatile flour that provides structure and texture to the cake.
• 3 large eggs at room temperature: Adds richness and structure, and helps bind the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness in the cake.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Another leavening agent that contributes to the cake’s texture.
• 1½ cups plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided): Sweetens the cake and adds moisture. Some sugar is set aside for later use.
• 1¼ cups whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil: The star ingredient, providing a unique flavor profile and moisture to the cake.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest: Adds a refreshing citrus aroma and flavor to the cake.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Enhances the citrus flavor and adds brightness to the cake.

Step By Step Recipe for Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake

Step one

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with olive oil, then dust it with flour. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper.

Step two

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda. Set the dry mixture aside.

Step three

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together 1 ½ cups of sugar and the eggs on high speed until pale and fluffy, about 1 minute.

Step four

While the mixer is on low speed, slowly drizzle in 1 cup of olive oil. Mix until well combined.

Step five:

Whisk together 1 ¼ cups of whole milk, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest in a separate small bowl. Add this mixture to the large mixing bowl and mix on low speed until smooth.

Step six:

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

Step seven:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and use a small spatula to smooth the surface.

Step eight:

Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the top of the batter.

Step nine:

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step ten:

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 20 minutes. Then, carefully remove the cake from the pan, discard the parchment paper, and let the cake cool completely on the wire rack for at least an hour before cutting into it.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 548kcal 
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Protein: 7g 
• Fat: 30g 
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 21g
• Trans Fat: 0.01g 
• Cholesterol: 74mg 
• Sodium: 421mg 
• Potassium: 123mg 
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 40g

What to serve with Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake?

Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments. Here are some delightful options to serve alongside the cake:

1. Whipped Cream: 

A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy and luscious element that complements the cake’s moist texture. You can flavor the whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or a touch of citrus zest for an extra dimension of flavor.

2. Fresh Berries: 

The vibrant colors and juicy sweetness of fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, are an excellent pairing with the Olive Oil Cake. They provide a refreshing contrast and a burst of fruity flavors.

3. Citrus Syrup: 

Drizzling citrus syrup over the cake can enhance the citrus notes in the recipe and add a delightful tang. Simply combine freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice with sugar, heat until the sugar dissolves, and then drizzle the syrup over individual slices.

4. Honey or Maple Syrup:

 For a natural and subtly sweet accompaniment, drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup over the cake. The richness of olive oil in the cake pairs well with the earthy sweetness of these natural sweeteners.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream: 

Serving a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the Olive Oil Cake creates a delightful combination of warm and cool textures. The creamy ice cream melts slightly into the cake, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

How to Store Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake?

To ensure the freshness and maintain quality of Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake, proper storage is important. Here’s how you can store the cake:

1. Completely cool the cake:

Allow the Olive Oil Cake to cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding with storage.

2. Wrap the cake: 

Once the cake has cooled, tightly wrap it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that the entire cake is covered to prevent air exposure, which can lead to drying out.

3. Store at room temperature: 

If you plan to consume the cake within a day or two, store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Make sure the storage area is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.

4. Refrigerate for longer storage: 

If you want to store the cake for an extended period, it’s best to refrigerate it. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator. This helps to maintain its moisture and freshness. 

Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.

5. Freeze for long-term storage: 

If you want to store the Olive Oil Cake for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Wrap the completely cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. 

Label the container with the date. The cake can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Remember, the texture and flavor of the Olive Oil Cake may slightly change after storage, but it will still be enjoyable.

Can Pregnant Woman Eat  Ina Garten Olive Oil Cake?

Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake is made with common baking ingredients, including all-purpose flour, eggs, olive oil, milk, and citrus zest. These ingredients are typically considered safe for consumption during pregnancy when handled and stored properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake is a true masterpiece that combines simplicity and elegance in every bite. This recipe showcases the magical transformation of everyday ingredients into a moist and flavorful dessert that will leave you craving more.

The beauty of Ina Garten’s Olive Oil Cake lies in its taste and ability to bring people together. It invites us to slow down, savor each bite, and create cherished memories with loved ones.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the world of desserts, this recipe will guide you toward a truly delightful creation.

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