Chocolate Olive Oil Loaf Cake

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Description: The Chocolate Olive Oil Loaf Cake is a rich and moist dessert that combines the depth of chocolate with the subtle fruitiness of olive oil. This cake is perfectly balanced with a tender crumb and a luscious, slightly nutty flavor from the olive oil, making it a sophisticated yet easy-to-make treat. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether served as an afternoon snack, a decadent breakfast, or a dinner party delight.

Origin: This cake draws inspiration from Mediterranean baking, where olive oil is often used in cakes and pastries to add moisture and richness. Olive oil’s use in dessert baking has become more popular due to its health benefits and unique flavor profile, adding a modern twist to traditional chocolate cake recipes.

Ingredients (for 8-10 servings):

For the Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (or non-dairy milk)
  • 1/2 cup boiling water
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (optional, for extra chocolate chunks)

For the Glaze (optional):

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk or water

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan (8×4 inches or 9×5 inches) or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine the dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined. The batter will be thick at this point.
  5. Add boiling water: Slowly pour in the boiling water, and stir until the batter becomes smooth and slightly thinner. This step helps create a moist and tender cake.
  6. Add chocolate (optional): If you’re using chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, fold them into the batter.
  7. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean (with a few moist crumbs). Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Make the glaze (optional): While the cake is cooling, make the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, olive oil, and milk or water until smooth and pourable.
  9. Glaze the cake (optional): Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Alternatively, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.
  10. Serve and enjoy: Slice and enjoy your rich, moist Chocolate Olive Oil Loaf Cake with a cup of coffee or tea!

Tips for Success:

  • Use high-quality olive oil: The olive oil’s flavor will shine through, so use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
  • Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
  • Let the cake cool completely before glazing: If you glaze the cake, let it cool fully to ensure the glaze sets properly.
  • Make it dairy-free: To make the cake dairy-free, use non-dairy milk and skip the glaze or substitute the butter in the glaze with a non-dairy alternative.

Recommendations:

  • Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
  • Serve with espresso or black coffee to enhance the flavors of the chocolate and olive oil.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate):

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg

This Chocolate Olive Oil Loaf Cake is a deliciously moist and indulgent treat, offering a subtle, fruity undertone from the olive oil, making it a unique twist on traditional chocolate cakes. Enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired dessert at any time!

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