Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that feels both special and comforting, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake is a true gem in my recipe collection. With its bright citrus flavor and moist texture, it’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. Plus, it’s not overly sweet, making it suitable for breakfast or brunch too! I love how this cake strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and healthiness.

This cake is also incredibly simple to make. You won’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few wholesome items, and you’ll have a beautiful cake that fills your kitchen with a lovely aroma as it bakes. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this cake together in no time.
• Bright flavors: The fresh grapefruit juice and zest add a vibrant twist that keeps every bite refreshing.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with powdered sugar and fresh grapefruit sections for an extra special treat.
• Healthy enough for breakfast: Who says you can’t have cake in the morning? This one is light enough to enjoy guilt-free.
• Dairy-free and nut-free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, making it an inclusive dessert option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake requires just a handful of simple ingredients that you might already have on hand! Each one plays a vital role in creating this delightful treat.

For the Cake

• 2 tbsp grapefruit zest
• 1 cup freshly squeezed ruby red grapefruit juice
• 1 3/4 cup white whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour – see notes)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
• 3/4 cup mild flavored olive oil

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun variations:

• Add other citrus: Swap out some grapefruit juice for lemon or orange juice for a citrus medley.
• Infuse with herbs: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the batter for an aromatic twist.
• Mix in nuts: If you’re not avoiding nuts, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pistachios for added texture.
• Top with fruit compote: Serve your cake with a homemade fruit compote made from seasonal berries or stone fruits.

How to Make Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Greasing a 9-inch springform pan (or round can pan) with oil is essential to ensure your cake comes out easily once baked. Line the bottom with parchment paper for extra protection.

Step 2: Zest and Juice the Grapefruit

Zesting the grapefruit yields about two tablespoons of bright-colored zest, which infuses the cake with incredible flavor. Be careful to avoid the bitter white pith! After zesting, juice your grapefruits until you have one cup of fresh juice—this will keep your cake moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Stir in the grapefruit zest so it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step helps ensure that your dry ingredients are well-blended before adding them to the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Whisk Eggs and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk three eggs until they are well combined. Gradually add granulated sugar along with vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste. The goal here is to whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy; this will help create air pockets in your cake, making it tender.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

Slowly whisk together the olive oil and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice into your egg mixture. This combination adds richness without being heavy, keeping your cake light yet flavorful.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to combine everything! Alternately add small amounts of your dry flour mixture and grapefruit mixture into the egg mixture while whisking continuously until just mixed together. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top if needed. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. You know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—this part is always so exciting!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a bit before releasing it onto a serving platter. It’s optional but oh-so-lovely to sprinkle some powdered sugar on top before serving alongside fresh grapefruit sections!

Enjoy every slice of this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

Baking is an art, and a few tips can help you create the most delightful Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake!

• Use fresh grapefruit: Freshly squeezed juice and zest provide a vibrant flavor that bottled options can’t match, ensuring your cake is bursting with citrus goodness.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining the bottom of your pan with parchment prevents sticking, making it easier to remove the cake once it’s baked. This way, you can present your masterpiece without any mishaps!
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon your flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This helps avoid packing and results in a lighter cake texture.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, keep an eye on your cake towards the end of baking. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center, ensuring it’s perfectly baked without being dry.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a platter helps maintain its structure and moisture, making each slice delicious.

How to Serve Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

This delightful cake is versatile enough to serve on various occasions—from cozy winter breakfasts to festive dinner parties. Here are some fun ways to present this beautiful dessert!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance that makes your cake look irresistible.
• Fresh herbs: Sprigs of mint or basil not only provide a pop of color but also complement the citrus flavor beautifully.
• Citrus segments: Adding fresh grapefruit or orange sections on top or around the cake enhances its visual appeal and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of dairy-free yogurt brings creaminess to each bite and balances the citrus flavor with a touch of tang.
• Mixed berry salad: A refreshing blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of color and sweetness that pairs nicely with the tartness of grapefruit.
• Herbed quinoa salad: Light and nutritious, this salad is packed with protein and flavors that harmonize well with your cake while providing an extra healthy element.
• Chia seed pudding: Creamy and satisfying, this pudding can be flavored with vanilla or other fruits for an added touch that complements your cake perfectly.

Enjoy every slice of this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake; it’s sure to brighten up any meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it stores well, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready to enjoy whenever you want.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Warm it gently in a toaster oven or microwave until just heated through. Enjoy with fresh grapefruit sections if desired!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delightful cake.

Can I use other citrus fruits in this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake?

Absolutely! While grapefruit gives a unique flavor, you can substitute with oranges or lemons for a different twist. Just adjust the zest and juice amounts accordingly.

How do I ensure my Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake stays moist?

Make sure not to overbake your cake; check it around the 50-minute mark. Also, using good quality olive oil contributes to keeping it moist and flavorful.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Is this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake suitable for breakfast?

Definitely! This cake is light and refreshing enough to enjoy as part of your breakfast alongside some fresh fruit or yogurt.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake! It’s such a wonderful blend of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion—whether as a cozy breakfast or a delightful dessert. I invite you to try it out and share your experiences. Happy baking!