Mediterranean Olive Oil Cake

This Mediterranean Olive Oil Cake combines traditional elements with a creative twist, using high-quality olive oil for a moist texture and a subtle flavor. Infused with fresh orange zest and topped with a honey drizzle, it's a delightful dessert that balances sweetness with a hint of citrus, making it a perfect ending to any meal. This cake is also suitable for those seeking a lighter dessert option.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• Zest of 1 orange
• Juice of 1 orange
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Honey for drizzling
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh orange slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine the olive oil, eggs, Greek yogurt, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, drizzle with honey, dust with powdered sugar, and garnish with fresh orange slices before serving.