Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup olive oil; 1 cup water; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations Co.

I always crave something rich yet simple, and this Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake perfectly fits that desire. The combination of chocolate and olive oil results in a moist, tender cake that's incredibly satisfying. Each bite delivers a deep chocolate flavor with a luxurious mouthfeel, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack or after dinner, this cake is sure to delight anyone who tries it, proving that sometimes, less is more in the world of dessert.

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:49:36.052Z

When I first experimented with using olive oil in a chocolate cake, I was surprised by how well the flavors combined. The oil not only adds richness but also enhances the chocolatey goodness without being overpowering. I remember my first attempt; the cake rose beautifully, and the aroma was heavenly.

One valuable tip I've learned is to ensure that the olive oil is of good quality, as it really shines in the final product. I love serving this cake warm from the oven, dusted with powdered sugar, for that extra touch of elegance. It’s a simple and delightful dessert that always impresses!

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fruity olive oil notes
Moist texture that stays fresh longer than traditional cakes
Quick to make, perfect for unexpected guests

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Using high-quality cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor, so opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste and smoother texture. Additionally, the olive oil not only adds moisture but also a distinct fruity note that elevates the overall chocolate experience. If you're unsure about the olive oil's flavor, go for a lighter variety; it’ll maintain the cake's lightness while contributing to its rich texture.

Apple cider vinegar may seem like an unusual addition, but it plays a crucial role in this recipe. The vinegar reacts with the baking soda, generating carbon dioxide that helps the cake rise beautifully. This also contributes to a tender crumb, preventing the cake from becoming dense. If you don't have apple cider vinegar, a neutral vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute, ensuring you still achieve the desired texture.

Baking Tips for Perfect Results

When you're ready to bake, it's important to monitor the cake closely. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick shows wet batter, give it an additional 2-3 minutes and check again. This extra attention helps prevent overbaking, which can lead to a dry cake.

Letting the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes is crucial—it allows the structure to set, making it easier to transfer without breaking. After that, cooling it completely on a wire rack helps maintain its moistness. If you’re eager to enjoy the cake warm, ensure that it has cooled enough to handle; otherwise, it might crumble when you attempt to remove it from the pan.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before starting:

Cake Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup olive oil
1 cup water
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Once you have your ingredients ready, you’re set to make the cake!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your junky dessert:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.

Combine wet ingredients

In another bowl, mix the olive oil, water, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.

Combine mixtures

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, try drizzling a bit of chocolate ganache over the cooled cake for an indulgent finish. Additionally, using high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor profile tremendously!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Olive Oil Snack Cake is great for make-ahead planning! Once completely cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, which helps it maintain its moisture. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, I recommend slicing it first to make it easier to thaw individual pieces as needed.

To revive the cake after freezing, let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This gentle reheating will bring back the cake's delightful softness, making it an excellent quick treat during busy weeks.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While delicious on its own, this cake can be enhanced with a variety of toppings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, or you could drizzle it with chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent twist. Consider serving slices alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the cake's richness. These additions not only enhance the flavors but also make a beautiful presentation for gatherings or dinner parties.

For those looking to experiment, you can incorporate different flavors such as adding instant coffee granules to amplify the chocolate or incorporating citrus zest into the batter for a refreshing contrast. This flexibility ensures you can adapt the cake to your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular vegetable oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil, but it will lack the unique flavor that olive oil provides.

→ Is this cake suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, you can make it vegan by using a plant-based vinegar and ensuring your chocolate components are dairy-free.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the texture and flavor of the cake.