Olive Oil Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

Olive oil cake with brown butter frosting is an elegant and sophisticated dessert that combines the unique, fruity flavor of olive oil with the rich, nutty taste of brown butter. This cake is moist and tender, thanks to the olive oil, and offers a subtle yet distinct flavor that sets it apart from traditional cakes. The brown butter frosting adds a layer of decadence, with its deep, caramel-like notes complementing the lightness of the cake. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its refined taste and beautiful presentation.

Olive oil cakes have their roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where olive oil is a staple ingredient. The use of olive oil instead of butter or other fats results in a cake that is not only flavorful but also has a delightful crumb and moisture. The brown butter frosting, made by cooking butter until it turns golden brown and develops a rich, toasty flavor, enhances the cake with its luxurious taste and smooth texture. Together, these elements create a dessert that is both sophisticated and comforting.

This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a delicious olive oil cake with brown butter frosting. From preparing the cake batter to making the frosting and assembling the cake, these detailed instructions will help you achieve a stunning and flavorful dessert.

Ingredients

For the Olive Oil Cake:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
• ¾ cup whole milk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Brown Butter Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish (optional):

• Lemon zest
• Fresh berries
• Edible flowers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Olive Oil Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the olive oil, whisking continuously until well combined.
4. Add Flavorings: Stir in the milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Brown Butter Frosting

1. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter.
2. Cool the Butter: Remove the pan from the heat and pour the brown butter into a heatproof bowl. Allow it to cool slightly.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, brown butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed until the ingredients are combined, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 3: Assemble and Frost the Cake

1. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, place it on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread the brown butter frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake using an offset spatula or butter knife.
2. Garnish (optional): For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the cake with lemon zest, fresh berries, or edible flowers.
3. Serve: Slice and serve the cake. Enjoy the delightful combination of the moist olive oil cake and the rich brown butter frosting.

Tips for the Perfect Olive Oil Cake

• High-Quality Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. The fruity notes of the olive oil will shine through in the cake.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth, even batter.
• Browning Butter: Watch the butter closely while browning to prevent it from burning. The butter should be golden brown with a nutty aroma.
• Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Olive oil cake with brown butter frosting is a unique and sophisticated dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds. Its moist, flavorful cake combined with the rich, nutty frosting creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a delicious treat, this cake is a perfect choice.