One-Bowl Lemon and Olive Oil Cake Recipe

 One-Bowl Lemon and Olive Oil Cake is a light, moist, and fragrant cake that combines zesty lemon with the subtle richness of olive oil. This simple cake comes together in a single bowl, making it perfect for a quick dessert or an elegant treat for afternoon tea. Its tender crumb and bright citrus flavor make it a favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 3 large eggs

  • ¾ cup olive oil

  • ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt or whole milk

  • Zest of 2 lemons

  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Cooking Time

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Bake time: 40–45 minutes

  • Total time: 50–55 minutes

Serving

  • Serves 8–10

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

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

  3. Add Wet Ingredients:

    Add the eggs, olive oil, yogurt (or milk), lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Do not overmix.

  4. Bake:

    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  5. Cool and Serve:

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Tips

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.

  • For extra moisture, brush the top of the warm cake with a simple lemon syrup (equal parts sugar and lemon juice, heated until dissolved).

  • This cake keeps well at room temperature for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutrition (per serving, without powdered sugar)

  • Calories: 280

  • Fat: 16g

  • Carbohydrates: 30g

  • Protein: 5g

One-Bowl Lemon and Olive Oil Cake is a light, tender, and citrusy dessert that’s simple to make but impressive to serve — a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors.