Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

Delight in the refreshing flavors of these Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets, perfect for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T14:38:27.452Z

These Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets are a delightful twist on traditional cakes, offering a moist texture and bright citrus flavor. Perfect for tea time or as a light dessert, these cakelets are sure to impress your guests.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Bright citrus flavor that awakens the palate
  • Moist and tender texture from olive oil
  • Perfect for afternoon tea or a light dessert

The Perfect Balance of Flavor

These Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets are a delightful harmony of bright citrus notes and the rich, smooth flavor of olive oil. The combination of fresh orange juice and zesty citrus elevates the cakelets, making them not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. Each bite bursts with flavor, providing a refreshing experience that is ideal for any occasion, whether you're hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat.

Olive oil serves as a fantastic alternative to traditional butter in baking, contributing to a moist and tender texture that keeps these cakelets from drying out. The oil's fruity undertones complement the citrus perfectly, creating a unique depth of flavor that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Versatile for Any Occasion

These cakelets are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various events. Serve them at an afternoon tea, paired with a cup of your favorite herbal tea or coffee, and watch as they become the star of the gathering. Their petite size makes them easy to enjoy, allowing guests to savor the flavors without feeling overwhelmed by dessert.

Additionally, they can be dressed up or down for different occasions. For a festive touch, consider topping them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, and a sprinkle of additional citrus zest for color and flavor. They are equally delightful when enjoyed plain, dusted lightly with powdered sugar.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets turn out perfectly, always measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for the best results, as even slight variations can affect the texture and flavor of your cakelets. Sifting the dry ingredients is also crucial, as it helps to aerate the flour and ensures an even distribution of baking powder and soda.

Another tip is to allow your eggs and olive oil to come to room temperature before mixing. This small step can make a significant difference in achieving a smooth batter. Also, be mindful not to overmix the batter; gentle folding is key to maintaining the cakelets' airy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start making your delicious cakelets!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini cakelet pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, eggs, orange juice, lemon zest, and orange zest until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Fill the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared cakelet pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cakelets to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Your Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets are now ready to be enjoyed!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, these cakelets can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each cakelet individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy.

For serving, consider pairing these delightful cakelets with a citrus-infused glaze or a simple fruit compote. A side of fresh berries or a light fruit salad can complement the flavors beautifully, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.

Nutritional Benefits of Olive Oil

Using olive oil in your baking not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help improve heart health. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a smart choice for those looking to incorporate healthier fats into their diet.

Moreover, the presence of citrus in these cakelets brings additional health benefits. Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C and fiber, contributing to overall wellness. Enjoying desserts that are both delicious and nutritious is a win-win for anyone looking to indulge guilt-free.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute with a light vegetable oil, but olive oil adds a unique flavor.

→ How should I store the cakelets?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze these cakelets?

Yes, they freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I serve with these cakelets?

They pair nicely with tea, coffee, or a light fruit compote.

Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets

Delight in the refreshing flavors of these Citrus Olive Oil Cakelets, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Ideas

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 cakelets

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/4 cup olive oil
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  6. 1 tablespoon orange zest
  7. 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  8. 1 teaspoon baking powder
  9. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  10. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  11. Powdered sugar for dusting

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini cakelet pan.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sugar, eggs, orange juice, lemon zest, and orange zest until well combined.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 04

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.

Step 05

Pour the batter into the prepared cakelet pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.

Step 06

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 07

Allow the cakelets to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 90mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 3g