Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup olive oil; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: Dessert Time

When I craved a sweet treat that felt indulgent yet comforting, I turned to this Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake. The combination of rich chocolate and the fruity notes of olive oil creates an incredibly moist cake that I just can't resist. I love how easy it is to whip up and how it feels like a hug in cake form. Whether I'm sharing it with friends or savoring a slice alone, this cake always brings smiles and satisfaction with every bite.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:45:36.584Z

From the moment I first tasted this cake, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The use of olive oil not only makes it beautifully tender but also adds a depth of flavor that you wouldn’t expect from a typical chocolate cake. One tip I found essential is to ensure your olive oil is of good quality, as it truly enhances the cake's character.

Experimenting with the addition of a pinch of sea salt on top has become my go-to finishing touch, elevating the chocolate flavor and creating a delightful contrast. I love serving it at casual gatherings or as a simple dessert for myself after dinner. It never disappoints!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh olive oil notes
Incredibly moist and tender crumb
Quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The combination of olive oil and cocoa powder is what sets this cake apart. Olive oil not only adds a unique flavor profile but also contributes to the moistness of the cake. The fruity notes pair beautifully with the rich chocolate, enhancing its depth. I recommend using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, as this will impart more flavor and aromatic qualities, making every bite indulgent.

Another crucial ingredient here is the apple cider vinegar. While it may seem unusual, vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create a lighter cake texture. It’s the perfect leavening partner, ensuring your cake rises beautifully without fail. If you're looking for a substitute, white vinegar or lemon juice can work similarly, but the flavor might shift slightly.

Tips for Perfect Texture

When mixing your ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a denser cake rather than the tender crumb you want. Mix just until the flour is combined with the wet ingredients; a few lumps are perfectly fine and won't affect the final texture.

Pay attention to your baking time. Baking this cake for 30 minutes usually yields fantastic results, but every oven is different. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it's done. Keep an eye on the edges as well—they should start to pull away from the sides of the pan slightly.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup olive oil
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

These ingredients combine to create a deliciously simple and flavorful cake.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the olive oil, water, vanilla, and apple cider vinegar.

Combine and Pour

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!

This simple process yields a rich and tender cake that’s perfect for any chocolate lover.

Pro Tips

Using high-quality olive oil can make a noticeable difference in flavor. Try enhancing it with a sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by dusting powdered sugar on top or serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The simplicity of the cake allows it to complement various toppings, so consider experimenting with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

For a bit of a twist, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream infused with a touch of orange zest. This addition brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake, offering a balanced dessert experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cake stores wonderfully, making it ideal for preparation ahead of time. Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it for longer, consider refrigerating it in an airtight container, where it will last up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving to restore its moistness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute canola or another neutral oil for a milder flavor, but olive oil gives the best taste.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can enhance the texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.