Olive Oil Chocolate Cake: Moist, Rich & Surprisingly Healthy
🏺 Introduction: A Mediterranean Twist on Classic Chocolate Cake
🍫 A Flavorful History Rooted in the Mediterranean 🇮🇹🌿🍫
When you think of chocolate cake, you might picture something buttery, dense, and sweet. But what if there was a way to enjoy all that richness with a more wholesome foundation? That’s where olive oil chocolate cake comes in—a Mediterranean-inspired version of a beloved dessert that delivers both decadence and nourishment.
This recipe’s origins are deeply tied to the culinary cultures of Italy, Greece, and Spain, where olive oil has been used in everything from savory dishes to rustic sweets for generations. In these regions, butter was historically scarce, so olive oil chocolate cake naturally evolved as a luxurious yet practical alternative. And today, it’s making a comeback as a go-to dessert for health-conscious bakers.
Unlike traditional chocolate cake, this one gets its velvety texture and delicate crumb from extra-virgin olive oil—bringing a subtle fruitiness and depth that’s hard to match. The result is a dairy-free dessert with an indulgent feel and a refined flavor that leaves a lasting impression.
🌍 Global Popularity and Modern Appeal
From its Mediterranean roots to your kitchen, the olive oil chocolate cake is gaining global popularity. It’s now embraced by bakers in kitchens around the world—not just for its taste, but for its healthy fats and incredible versatility.
Here are the top 10 countries where this dessert is catching on fast:
🇮🇹 Italy
🇬🇷 Greece
🇪🇸 Spain
🇺🇸 United States
🇫🇷 France
🇦🇺 Australia
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇨🇦 Canada
🇮🇱 Israel
🇹🇷 Turkey
So why has the olive oil chocolate cake become so beloved? It’s simple. People want balance—something indulgent yet healthy, sophisticated yet easy. This cake delivers that harmony, making it a top choice for everything from dinner parties to casual weeknight baking.
For more Mediterranean dessert inspiration, check out our Mediterranean Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe, which offers a citrusy, buttery-free experience 🍋.
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10 Reasons This Olive Oil Chocolate Cake Will Be Your New Favorite Dessert
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 9-inch cake (10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This olive oil chocolate cake is rich, moist, and naturally dairy-free. A Mediterranean twist on classic chocolate cake—easy to make and full of flavor!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup boiling water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup superfine sugar
- ½ cup almond flour (or all-purpose flour for non-gluten-free version)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of sea salt
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Prep Your Oven
- Preheat to 325°F
- Grease and line your springform pan
- Mix the Chocolate Base
- Whisk cocoa powder with boiling water until smooth
- Stir in vanilla and let cool slightly
- Blend Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, olive oil, and eggs
- Beat until pale and thick
- Combine All Components
- Add the cocoa mixture into egg mixture
- Fold in flour, baking soda, and salt
- Bake to Perfection
- Pour batter into pan
- Bake for 40–45 minutes or until toothpick comes out with moist crumbs
- Cool and Serve
- Let rest in pan 10 min, then unmold
- Serve as-is or dust with powdered sugar
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / American fusion
🧾 What You’ll Need: Tools, Ingredients, and Tips for Success
🧁🛠️ Essential Equipment for a Seamless Baking Experience
Before you start baking your olive oil chocolate cake, make sure your kitchen is set up for success. Having the right tools on hand makes every step of the process smoother and more enjoyable:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pan 🥧
- Parchment paper for easy lining
- Optional: stand mixer or hand mixer for extra convenience
When baking an olive oil chocolate cake, precise mixing ensures a silky batter and even texture. If using nonstick bakeware, slightly reduce your oven temperature to prevent overbaking the edges and drying out the crumb.
🍫🫒 Key Ingredients That Define the Cake
This olive oil chocolate cake shines because of its balanced, bold ingredients. Each one plays a key role in flavor and structure:
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds moisture, heart-healthy fats, and fruity depth
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Provides rich, dark chocolate intensity
- All-purpose flour – Creates a reliable, stable base
- Baking powder + baking soda – Ensure the perfect rise
- Granulated sugar – Delivers sweetness and tenderness
- Eggs – Bind ingredients and enhance richness
- Vanilla extract – Rounds out chocolate flavor
- Hot water or brewed coffee – Amplifies the chocolate profile
- Optional: dark chocolate chips or chunks for decadent bites 🍫
🧑🍳✨ Pro Tips for Best Results
To get the most flavor out of your olive oil chocolate cake, follow these quick tips:
- Choose a high-quality, cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil
- Sift your cocoa and flour to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter
- Let your eggs sit at room temperature—they’ll incorporate more evenly into your mix
Looking to explore more ways to use olive oil in baking? Try our Caramelized Honey French Toast which also highlights natural sweetness and richness.
🧂 Ingredients List: Everything You’ll Need to Bake the Perfect Cake
📏🍰 Precise Measurements for Foolproof Results
Baking a perfect olive oil chocolate cake requires accurate measurements—every component plays a role in achieving that moist, rich texture. Here’s the full list for one 9-inch round cake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup brewed coffee or hot water
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Each ingredient works together to create the ideal olive oil chocolate cake. The olive oil offers moisture and depth, while the cocoa and coffee enhance the richness of the chocolate flavor.
🔄🥄 Optional Add-Ins and Smart Swaps
This olive oil chocolate cake is incredibly flexible. Whether you’re baking for health needs or just experimenting, try these smart tweaks:
- Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic version
- Replace eggs with flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option
- Add espresso powder to deepen the chocolate profile
- Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch and texture
These substitutions let you tailor your olive oil chocolate cake without losing its signature richness and smooth crumb.
👩🍳 Instructions: How to Make Olive Oil Chocolate Cake
Creating a moist and flavorful olive oil chocolate cake is simpler than you think. This foolproof method ensures a rich, tender crumb with a deep chocolate taste, every time. Follow these detailed steps to make the perfect olive oil-based cake that’s worthy of any celebration or quiet evening treat.
🔥 Prep Like a Pro: Oven, Pan & Ingredients
Preheat the Oven
First, set your oven to 350°F. A consistent temperature is key to baking success. Grease a 9-inch round springform pan, then line the bottom with parchment paper to guarantee an easy release once your olive oil chocolate cake is done.
Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your dry ingredients:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of fine sea salt
Whisk thoroughly to eliminate clumps and ensure even distribution of rising agents.
🧁 Build That Rich Chocolate Batter
Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a second bowl, whisk together 1 cup of superfine sugar and ¾ cup of extra-virgin olive oil until smooth and glossy. One by one, add 3 large eggs, beating well after each. Then stir in 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract to enhance the cake’s depth of flavor.
Add the Secret Moisture Boosters
Next, pour in ½ cup of strong brewed coffee (or hot water if preferred) and ½ cup of Greek yogurt (or sour cream for richness). These not only deepen the chocolate intensity but also help create the soft, luxurious texture olive oil cakes are known for.
Mix Everything Together
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Use a rubber spatula or whisk to gently fold until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your olive oil chocolate cake from becoming dense.
⏲️ Bake, Cool, and Savor Every Slice
Bake the Cake
Pour the silky batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let it Cool
Once baked, let your olive oil chocolate cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely. This crucial step prevents cracking and ensures the cake sets beautifully.
You can finish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a layer of chocolate ganache if you’re feeling decadent. 🍫
👉 Want more dessert inspiration with bold flavor and healthier fats? Try my Churro Cheesecake Bars—a crowd-favorite with crisp edges and a creamy cinnamon-spiced filling.
Nutrition Information: A Dessert That’s Decadent and Heart-Conscious
Per Serving Breakdown (1 Slice) ⚖️🍽️
While this cake is rich and deeply chocolatey, it’s also a more health-conscious alternative to butter-based desserts. Here’s the approximate nutritional profile per slice (based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
Thanks to the use of extra-virgin olive oil, this cake cuts down on saturated fats while adding heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
Health Benefits of Olive Oil and Cocoa 🌿❤️🍫
- Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which support cardiovascular health and can help lower bad cholesterol.
- Unlike butter, it’s also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips contain flavanols, known for improving blood flow and brain function.
- Using coffee or hot water to bloom the cocoa not only intensifies flavor but may also enhance antioxidant absorption.
Looking for another nutritious chocolate option? Our High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal makes a smart, sweet breakfast with a health boost.
Serving and Storage Tips: Make It Last, Serve It Right
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion 🍰🍓
The simplicity of this moist chocolate cake recipe makes it ideal for any event—from casual dinners to elegant gatherings. Here are some delicious and visually stunning ways to serve it:
- Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a minimalist look 🌫️
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍦
- Serve with fresh berries like raspberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries for color and contrast 🍓
- Garnish with mint leaves or edible flowers to impress guests at a dinner party 🌿🌸
- For a Mediterranean touch, drizzle with orange-infused olive oil or serve alongside a glass of dessert wine 🍷
Want more breakfast-to-dessert flexibility? Check out our Blueberry Ricotta Breakfast Cake for a lighter, fruit-forward option.
How to Store and Keep It Fresh 🧊📦
Proper storage helps maintain the cake’s texture and flavor for days:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigeration: Keeps well for up to 1 week—bring to room temperature before serving
- Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap + aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months
- To thaw, place in the fridge overnight or let sit at room temperature for 2–3 hours
Avoid storing the cake uncovered, as this will dry it out quickly and dull the richness that makes it shine.
For more cake storage insights, don’t miss our tips in the French Toast Casserole Guide—because even baked breakfasts deserve proper care.
🔄 Variations and Customizations: Tailor Your Olive Oil Chocolate Cake
The olive oil chocolate cake is stunning in its simplicity, but it’s also a blank canvas for bold, aromatic twists. With just a few thoughtful add-ins or substitutions, you can take this classic to the next level—without compromising its rich flavor or soft, moist texture.
🍊☕🍫 Flavor Enhancements to Elevate Every Bite
While this olive oil chocolate cake is perfect as-is, try these simple additions to elevate its Mediterranean personality:
- Add 1 tsp espresso powder for deep, mocha notes
- Mix in orange zest for a citrusy, sun-kissed flair
- Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty aroma
- Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for satisfying crunch
- Finish with a dark chocolate ganache or dust of cinnamon sugar
These flavor boosts keep the cake’s dairy-free appeal intact while adding exciting new dimensions. If you enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes, pair this with my Zesty Roasted Beet and Orange Salad for a vibrant, seasonal balance.
🌱🌾❌🧈 Dietary Modifications That Don’t Compromise Taste
One of the best things about an olive oil chocolate cake is how well it adapts to dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 GF flour blend or almond flour
- Vegan: Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water)
- Refined Sugar-Free: Sub in coconut sugar or maple syrup
- Nut-Free: Use cacao nibs or seeds as toppings
For more adaptable recipes, explore my Mini Crustless Quiches—a flexible dish with built-in custom options.
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions About Olive Oil Chocolate Cake
Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra-virgin?
Yes, but keep in mind that extra-virgin olive oil offers a more robust, fruity flavor and greater health benefits due to its minimal processing. If you’re aiming for a milder taste, a light olive oil works, but you’ll lose some of the Mediterranean character.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Absolutely. To make a vegan olive oil chocolate cake, simply replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg). Be sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips if you’re adding them.
How does olive oil affect the cake’s texture?
Olive oil makes the cake moist and tender with a slightly denser crumb than butter-based cakes. It also helps the cake stay fresh longer by locking in moisture, especially helpful when storing for several days.
Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?
Definitely! Just divide the batter evenly among lined muffin tins, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. This method yields around 12–14 cupcakes.
Does the cake taste like olive oil?
Not overwhelmingly. While you’ll notice a subtle fruity, peppery note, the chocolate flavor remains dominant—especially if you use brewed coffee to deepen the cocoa’s richness.
Is olive oil good for chocolate cake?
Absolutely! In fact, olive oil chocolate cake is praised for its incredibly moist texture and depth of flavor. The extra-virgin olive oil not only adds healthy monounsaturated fats but also enhances the richness of the dark chocolate. Many bakers prefer olive oil because it results in a tender, softer crumb than butter-based cakes.
Does chocolate olive oil cake taste good?
Yes—it’s downright delicious! A chocolate olive oil cake has a fudgy, rich texture with an elegant, slightly fruity undertone from the olive oil. It doesn’t taste oily or greasy. Instead, it feels luxurious in the mouth and pairs perfectly with fresh berries, espresso, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
What makes an olive oil cake so special?
What sets an olive oil cake apart—especially a dark chocolate olive oil cake—is its ability to stay moist for days without drying out. Unlike butter, which solidifies, olive oil keeps the crumb tender and delicate even when stored at room temperature.
Additionally, olive oil brings a slightly floral or fruity note, depending on the variety used. This complements chocolate exceptionally well, creating a dessert that’s simple yet sophisticated.
Conclusion: A Decadent Dessert with a Healthy Twist
Simple, Elegant, and Full of Flavor 🍫✨
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to dairy-free desserts, this olive oil chocolate cake delivers on every front: flavor, texture, and health-conscious ingredients. Its soft crumb and deep cocoa profile make it a perfect choice for birthdays, dinner parties, or even a quiet weekend treat.
By swapping butter for extra-virgin olive oil, you unlock a whole new world of flavor while supporting heart health and embracing a Mediterranean chocolate cake tradition that’s stood the test of time. Each bite is rich without being heavy, indulgent without guilt.
Encourage Creativity and Community Engagement 🌍💬
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, don’t stop here! Try the flavor customizations, test out dietary swaps, or serve it alongside seasonal fruit and local wine. If you love experimenting with olive oil in desserts, be sure to explore our Collection of Olive Oil-Based Recipes for more inspiration.
Have a tip or a personal spin on this cake? Drop it in the comments or share a photo with us—your version might be featured in our next newsletter!
🏁 Conclusion: A Decadent Dessert with a Healthy Twist
The beauty of this olive oil chocolate cake lies in its perfect harmony—luxuriously rich yet surprisingly light, simple to make yet deeply flavorful. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience steeped in tradition and elevated by modern wellness values.
🎂 Simple, Elegant, and Full of Flavor
Whether you’re baking for a birthday, potluck, or simply to satisfy a craving, this olive oil chocolate cake hits every note. The texture is moist and tender with a deep, complex chocolate flavor that develops beautifully thanks to the richness of extra-virgin olive oil. It’s a healthier twist on the classic chocolate cake—ideal for those seeking flavor without compromise.
Replacing butter with olive oil doesn’t just benefit your heart—it enhances the texture and shelf life. In fact, olive oil helps the cake stay soft and luscious for days without needing refrigeration. You won’t miss the butter, and your guests will be asking for seconds.
🌍 Encourage Creativity and Community Engagement
This olive oil chocolate cake recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can dress it up with fresh berries, drizzle it with dark chocolate ganache, or even fold in orange zest or espresso powder for a custom flavor profile. Want to go gluten-free or vegan? Simple swaps make this cake accessible to nearly everyone.
Love experimenting in the kitchen? You’re invited to explore the full collection of olive oil dessert recipes for even more sweet, wholesome inspiration.
Have your own twist on this cake? I’d love to hear it. Drop your comments below or tag your baking photos with #DonaldRecipes on social media. I feature my favorite reader bakes in the monthly newsletter—yours could be next!