Can This Recipe Be Made Vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this cake vegan by substituting key ingredients. For eggs, use flax eggs (mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Replace dairy yogurt with plant-based yogurt or an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce. If the recipe calls for honey, switch to maple syrup or agave for a vegan-friendly sweetener. These substitutions maintain the cake’s moisture and flavor, resulting in a delicious vegan version.

Can I Use a Different Oil?

Yes, you can use other oils, but olive oil is recommended for the best texture and flavor. If you prefer alternatives, avocado oil is a great choice for its neutral flavor and healthy fats. Melted coconut oil can also be used, adding a subtle coconut taste. Avoid vegetable oils with strong flavors, as they may affect the cake’s overall taste. Adjust quantities carefully to maintain the cake’s light, moist texture.

Which Apples Work Best?

For this recipe, firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji are ideal. These varieties hold their shape during baking and offer a balance of sweetness and acidity that enhances the cake’s flavor. Avoid using overly soft apples, as they can become mushy. If you prefer a sweeter cake, opt for Gala or Pink Lady apples. Peeling the apples is optional, depending on your desired texture.

Moist Apple and Olive Oil Cake: A Healthy Dessert Idea -

Description

This moist apple and olive oil cake is an excellent choice if you want a simple and tasty dessert. It’s made with fresh apples, heart-friendly olive oil, and natural sweetness. This cake is a healthier option compared to butter-based cakes. You can enjoy it as a snack, a light breakfast, or a sweet treat after dinner.

Apple and Olive Oil Cake Recipe:

What Makes This Cake Special?

Naturally Moist: Apples and olive oil keep the cake soft and fresh.
Great Flavor: Olive oil and apples create a mild sweetness.
Healthy Alternative: Olive oil provides good fats, making this dessert a better choice.
Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple ingredients and steps, perfect for beginners.

Why Use Olive Oil in Baking?

Prevents Dryness: Olive oil stays liquid at room temperature, keeping the cake moist.
Mild Fruity Taste: It enhances the cake’s flavor without overpowering it.
Nutritious: Olive oil has healthy fats that are good for the heart.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
3/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup Greek yogurt or applesauce
2 cups grated apples (about two medium apples)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)

Syrup Ingredients:

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Olive Oil Icing Ingredients:

1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons milk or orange juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

How to Make the Cake:

Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk olive oil, honey, eggs, vanilla, and Greek yogurt (or applesauce) until combined.
Combine the Mixtures: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Stir gently to avoid overmixing.
Fold in Apples and Nuts: Add the grated apples and nuts, ensuring they are evenly spread.
Bake the Cake: Pour batter into the cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Check with a toothpick—the cake is done if it comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

How to Make the Syrup:

Combine Ingredients: Mix honey (or maple syrup), orange juice, and cinnamon in a small pan.
Simmer the Syrup: Cook over low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add to Cake: Pour the warm syrup over the slightly cooled cake for extra moisture and flavor.

How to Make the Olive Oil Icing:

Mix the Ingredients: Stir powdered sugar, olive oil, milk (or orange juice), and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle Over Cake: Let the cake cool completely before adding icing.

Notes

Best Tips for This Cake:

Use Fresh Apples: Freshly grated apples add natural moisture.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir gently to keep the cake light and soft.
Let the Cake Rest: Cooling the cake before adding syrup and icing improves the taste.
Choose Quality Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives the best flavor.

How to Store Leftover Cake?

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Dessert/ Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 310 kcal
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg