Introduction

This Olive Cake is a savory delight that combines the rich, savory flavors of black olives with a moist, tender crumb. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, this dish is versatile and easy to make. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply want to treat yourself to a homemade snack, this cake is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 200 grams of black olives, pitted and chopped
– 150 grams of all-purpose flour
– 100 grams of grated cheese (preferably Gruyère)
– 3 large eggs
– 100 ml of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor

Prep Time

Preparation time for this delicious Olive Cake is approximately 15 minutes. This makes it an easy and quick recipe to fit into your busy schedule.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is around 45 minutes, bringing the total time to about 1 hour. This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 servings, depending on the size of the slices. Enjoy this unique treat on its own or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients including flour, eggs, olives, baking powder, and any additional flavorings you wish to use. Make sure to choose pitted black olives for convenience.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to a temperature of 180°C (350°F) to ensure it is hot when you are ready to bake the cake.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and baking powder together. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.

Prepare the Olive Mixture

Chop the black olives into small pieces. You may want to lightly rinse them if they are packed in brine to reduce the saltiness.

Whisk Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and any additional wet ingredients like oil or milk until well combined and slightly frothy.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to over-mix. The batter should be smooth but may still have some lumps.

Add Olives

Fold in the chopped black olives into the batter evenly. Make sure they are well distributed throughout the mix.

Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour the batter into a greased or lined cake pan. Level the top with a spatula for even baking.

Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool Down

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and Serve

Once cooled, slice the cake into pieces and serve. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of salad or cheese.

Notes

Ingredient Variations

You can experiment with different types of olives or add cheese such as feta or grated parmesan for added flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store the baked cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices.

Serving Suggestions

This savory cake is perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or as a starter dish. Pair it with a fresh salad or antipasto platter for an appealing meal.

Cook techniques

Mixing the Batter

Ensure that the wet and dry ingredients are well combined without overmixing to maintain the cake’s texture.

Choosing the Olives

Opt for high-quality black olives, preferably pitted and chopped, to enhance the flavor of the cake.

Baking Temperature

Bake the cake at a moderate temperature to allow even cooking and prevent the exterior from burning before the interior is fully set.

Testing for Doneness

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs when the cake is done.

Cooling the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

FAQ

Can I use green olives instead of black olives?

Yes, you can use green olives, but they will impart a different flavor to the cake.

How should I store the cake?

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

Can I add other ingredients to the cake?

Yes, you can add ingredients like cheese, herbs, or nuts for additional flavor and texture.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.

How can I tell when the cake is fully baked?

The cake is fully baked when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Conclusion

The black olive cake is a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of olives with a moist, fluffy texture. It makes for a perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering, providing a unique twist to traditional cake recipes. By incorporating simple ingredients and techniques, this recipe stands out for its ease and delicious outcome. Enjoying this savory treat can inspire creativity in your culinary adventures.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Cheese and Herb Cake

Combine cheese like feta or goat cheese with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic and flavorful cake that pairs beautifully with olives.

Tomato and Basil Focaccia

Experiment with a focaccia that features sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, offering a deliciously moist bread that complements the saltiness of the black olives.

Sun-dried Tomatoes and Pesto Bread

Create a bread enriched with sun-dried tomatoes and a swirl of pesto for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor that works well alongside the black olive cake.

Veggie Muffins

Make savory muffins packed with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful addition that balances the flavor profile of the black olive cake.

Spicy Chorizo and Olive Bread

Introduce the bold flavors of chorizo and black olives in a rustic bread, providing a hearty option for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their dishes.