Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly blends the bright flavors of winter with wholesome ingredients, this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake is just what you need! This cake strikes a lovely balance between a comforting dessert and a healthy breakfast option. It’s moist, flavorful, and doesn’t even require frosting—perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special without the fuss.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it at brunch with friends or serving it as a light dessert after dinner, this cake fits right in. Plus, it’s dairy-free and nut-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of grapefruit juice and zest gives every bite a refreshing zing!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this cake shines.
• Healthy indulgence: Enjoy the pleasure of cake without any guilt—it’s so good, you might want to have it more often!
• Make ahead convenience: It stores well in the fridge, so you can bake it in advance and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this deliciousness:

• 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 great things about this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it your own:

• Add some spice: Consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm twist.
• Mix in some fruit: Toss in blueberries or raspberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Try different citrus: Swap grapefruit for oranges or lemons if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Top it off: Serve with yogurt or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a delightful finish.

How to Make Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 350°F. Greasing a 9 springform pan with oil and lining the bottom with parchment paper ensures your cake will come out cleanly and beautifully.

Step 2: Zest and Juice the Grapefruit

Zest your grapefruit carefully until you have about 2 tablespoons. Remember to avoid the white pith since it’s bitter! Then juice enough grapefruits until you have one full cup. Combining these two elements adds that wonderful citrus punch.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together your flour, baking powder, and sea salt. Mixing in the grapefruit zest at this stage helps distribute its flavor throughout the dry ingredients. Set aside this mixture for later.

Step 4: Whisk the Eggs

In a large bowl, whisk your eggs until they’re nice and frothy. Add in granulated sugar and vanilla extract (or paste) and keep whisking until everything looks light and fluffy. This step is key; it incorporates air into your eggs which helps give the cake its lovely texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now comes the fun part! Slowly alternate adding your dry mixture and grapefruit juice-oil mixture into the egg mixture while whisking just until combined. Be gentle here; we don’t want to overmix!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell that fills your kitchen during baking is simply heavenly!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once done, remove from oven to cool slightly before inverting onto a serving platter. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top if you’d like—a little touch that adds elegance! Serve with fresh grapefruit sections for an extra treat.

And there you have it! A delicious Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake that’s sure to brighten up any day. Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

Baking this delightful grapefruit olive oil cake is a breeze, and these tips will help ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh grapefruit: Freshly squeezed juice and zest enhance the flavor of your cake, bringing out the bright citrus notes that make this dessert stand out.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents overpacking, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment helps the cake release easily, ensuring a beautiful presentation once inverted.
• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens vary in temperature; start checking for doneness at 50 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool fully before inverting helps maintain its structure and prevents breakage.

How to Serve Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake

This cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve it as a delightful dessert or a sophisticated breakfast treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, enhancing the cake’s visual appeal.
• Fresh grapefruit sections: These add a burst of color and complement the citrus flavor beautifully, making each slice refreshing.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint offer a pop of green and a refreshing aroma that elevates the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: The creaminess of yogurt balances the zesty cake perfectly, creating a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
• Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and color on the plate, making for an inviting presentation.
• Herbed quinoa salad: This nutritious side dish brings an earthy element that pairs well with the citrusy notes of the cake, offering great flavor variety.
• Coconut whipped cream: A dairy-free alternative to traditional whipped cream, this adds richness and complements the grapefruit without overpowering it.

Enjoy your Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake with these delightful serving suggestions that are sure to impress your guests or treat yourself!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can bake it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, making it a fantastic option for quick breakfasts or delightful desserts.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Item: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Item: Keep at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Item: Slice the cake into individual servings for easy thawing.
• Item: Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Item: Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• Item: For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Item: Place the desired slice on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Item: Alternatively, microwave each slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

How can I make Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, simply substitute white whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for best results.

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

Absolutely! You can replace grapefruit with oranges, lemons, or limes. Just adjust the zest and juice amounts accordingly to maintain flavor balance.

What should I serve with Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream. It’s also delicious on its own as a breakfast treat!

How long does Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If frozen, it can stay good for up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Easy Grapefruit Olive Oil Cake! It’s not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating something wholesome and delicious that you can share with loved ones. Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or just a snack, this cake is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your table. Enjoy every bite!