Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe with Mascarpone Glaze

As a lover of citrus desserts, I can never resist a cake bursting with bright, tangy flavors. This Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe is a true masterpiece—perfectly balancing the richness of olive oil, the creaminess of crème fraîche, and the zestiness of lemon. It’s a foolproof, flavorful treat that always satisfies my sweet tooth!

And if you love lemon desserts as much as I do, don’t forget to try my Meyer Lemon Tiramisu Recipe! Now, let’s bake this irresistible cake.

Ingredients for Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe

For the cake:

• All-purpose flour adds a tender crumb texture to the cake.
• Baking powder and baking soda work together to give the cake a light and airy rise.
• A touch of salt enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Extra-virgin olive oil contributes a rich, slightly fruity note and moistness to the cake.
• Granulated sugar adds a sweet base to balance the tartness of the lemons.
• Eggs provide structure and richness to the cake.
• crème fraîche. Greek yogurt or sour cream (if unavailable) brings a creamy and slightly tangy element to the batter.
• Zest of 2 lemons infuses the cake with fragrant citrus notes.
• Fresh lemon juice, preferably from Meyer lemons, offers a bright and zesty lemony flavor.

For the glaze:

• Mascarpone cheese creates a luxurious, creamy texture and adds a mild, slightly tangy flavor to the glaze.
• Lemon curd imparts a vibrant and zesty lemon flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness. Check my recipe here.
• Crushed pistachios provide a delightful crunch and nutty taste, complementing the creamy and tangy elements of the glaze for a harmonious finish to the cake.

Baking with Olive Oil vs. Butter

The fat you choose can transform your cake’s texture and flavor. While butter is a classic option, using mild olive oil in this Lemon Olive Oil Cake Recipe adds subtle fruitiness and richness without overpowering the bright citrus notes. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative that keeps the cake extra moist! If you prefer, you can substitute butter for a slightly different but equally delicious result.

Topping Ideas for Extra Flavor

For the perfect finishing touch, I recommend a velvety mascarpone glaze made with homemade lemon curd. This combination enhances the cake’s zesty essence with a creamy, tangy layer of flavor. Other great options include:

• A dusting of powdered sugar for a simple, elegant touch
• Whipped cream or a light cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence
• Fresh berries or candied lemon slices for a decorative and flavorful twist

Enjoy this cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat, or serve it as an elegant dessert for special occasions!

Effortless Cake Release with a Springform Pan

For easy and elegant presentation, I highly recommend using a 9-inch springform pan. Its design allows for a smooth, fuss-free release once the cake has cooled. If you don’t have one, a regular 9-inch cake pan works too—just be sure to grease it well and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.