Lemon olive oil cake is the one that stays moist for days because of the oil, with lemon for brightness and a thin glaze on top. I use a fruity oil so the flavor shows through the crumb.
The recipe is easy to follow and results in a moist and flavorful cake, perfect for any occasion. The addition of a citrus glaze adds a lovely finish, making this cake a showstopper.
Moist Italian Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe

This Lemon Olive Oil Cake features a light and airy texture with vibrant lemon flavor complemented by the subtle fruitiness of olive oil. The cake is topped with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze, making it a delightful treat that serves about 8 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Citrus Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed citrus juice (lemon or orange)
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with citrus juice until it reaches a pourable consistency. Adjust with more juice if necessary.
- Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the citrus glaze over the top. Garnish with lemon or orange zest.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy your delicious Italian Lemon Olive Oil Cake!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
Brush the glaze on while the cake is warm so it soaks in.






