This Olive Oil Cake with Strawberries, Ricotta, and Cornmeal is a moist and flavorful dessert that perfectly balances the richness of olive oil with the lightness of ricotta and the subtle texture of cornmeal. Fresh strawberries add a burst of freshness, making this cake a delightful treat for any occasion—from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup fine cornmeal

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ½ cup ricotta cheese

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.

2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Slowly add olive oil, ricotta, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing well.

4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

5. Gently fold in sliced strawberries, reserving a few for garnish.

6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Allow cake to cool before removing from pan. Garnish with remaining strawberries before serving.

Nutrients (estimate per serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal

• Protein: 5 g

• Fat: 14 g

• Carbohydrates: 32 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 18 g

The Unique Qualities of Olive Oil Cake

Olive oil cake is celebrated for its moistness and tender crumb, qualities imparted by the use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil rather than butter or other fats. Olive oil introduces a subtle fruitiness and depth, enhancing the flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients. Unlike butter-based cakes, olive oil cakes are often lighter and more delicate, with a pleasantly moist texture that keeps well over time.

This cake’s simplicity is deceptive, as the olive oil adds complexity and richness that pairs beautifully with the lemon zest and fresh strawberries. Using olive oil also makes the cake suitable for those seeking dairy alternatives or looking to experiment with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

The Role of Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese adds a creamy softness that enriches the batter and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb. It helps keep the cake moist while adding a subtle, mild dairy flavor that balances the fruitiness of the olive oil and the tartness of the strawberries.

Incorporating ricotta into the cake also introduces a slight tang and silkiness, making each bite feel luscious without heaviness. Its presence enhances the overall texture, ensuring the cake is neither dry nor dense.

Ricotta is a nutritious addition, providing protein and calcium, which adds nutritional value to the dessert without compromising its lightness.

Cornmeal: Texture and Flavor Enhancement

Cornmeal gives this cake a unique character, offering a slight crunch and a nutty, earthy flavor that complements the fruity and creamy elements beautifully. The fine cornmeal used in this recipe integrates smoothly into the batter, creating a delicate texture that’s more interesting than a traditional flour-only cake.

Cornmeal’s coarse grains create a subtle contrast to the soft ricotta and fluffy egg mixture, providing an added sensory dimension that makes the cake memorable. It also contributes a golden hue to the crumb and enhances the rustic charm of the dessert.

This ingredient roots the cake in a Mediterranean tradition, where cornmeal is often used in both savory and sweet baked goods, showcasing its versatility and timeless appeal.

Fresh Strawberries: The Perfect Fruity Counterpoint

Fresh strawberries are essential in this recipe for their bright, juicy sweetness and slightly tart flavor. They add freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the olive oil and ricotta, balancing the overall flavor profile.

Incorporating strawberries into the batter ensures bursts of juicy fruit in every bite, while using extra slices as garnish adds visual appeal and an extra layer of texture. Their vibrant red color provides a stunning contrast to the golden cake, making it especially attractive on the table.

Strawberries also bring antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber to the dessert, contributing nutritional benefits alongside indulgence.

Flavor Harmonies: Lemon Zest and Vanilla

Lemon zest enhances the cake with bright, citrusy aromas and subtle tartness, accentuating the fruity notes from the strawberries and balancing the richness of the olive oil and ricotta. It adds freshness and lifts the overall flavor, making the cake feel lighter and more vibrant.

Vanilla extract adds a warm, sweet undertone that rounds out the citrus notes and complements the natural flavors of the olive oil and ricotta. The combination of lemon and vanilla creates a sophisticated flavor profile that is both comforting and refreshing.

These flavorings work harmoniously to create a cake that is nuanced yet approachable, appealing to a wide audience.

Moisture and Texture: Achieving the Perfect Cake

The combination of olive oil and ricotta ensures that the cake remains moist without being greasy or dense. Olive oil’s liquid fat consistency integrates well into the batter, while ricotta adds creaminess and tenderness. The cornmeal adds a slight texture contrast, giving the crumb structure and a delicate crunch.

Proper mixing technique—folding the dry ingredients into the wet carefully—preserves the airiness of the batter, contributing to a light and fluffy texture. The result is a cake with a moist crumb that is tender but not fragile, able to hold its shape well when sliced.

Versatility and Occasions

This Olive Oil Cake with Strawberries, Ricotta, and Cornmeal suits a variety of occasions. It makes an elegant centerpiece for brunch or afternoon tea, offering a sophisticated alternative to heavier cakes or pastries. Its fresh flavors and moist texture also make it an excellent dessert for spring and summer gatherings when fresh berries are abundant.

The cake pairs well with a range of beverages, including tea, coffee, and light white wines, enhancing its appeal at social events. It can also be adapted by swapping strawberries for other seasonal fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, allowing flexibility throughout the year.

Its rustic yet refined nature means it fits equally well in casual or formal settings, making it a versatile recipe for home cooks and entertainers alike.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While this cake is undeniably a treat, it offers a better nutritional profile than many traditional cakes due to the use of olive oil and ricotta. Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, while ricotta contributes protein and calcium. Cornmeal adds fiber and a bit of complex carbohydrate, promoting digestive health.

The fresh strawberries add vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, boosting the cake’s overall nutritional benefit. However, as with any dessert, it is best enjoyed in moderation, especially considering the sugar content.

This cake can be made even healthier by adjusting sugar amounts or substituting with natural sweeteners, making it adaptable to various dietary preferences.

Baking Tips for Success

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor requires using high-quality ingredients, especially extra virgin olive oil and fresh ricotta. Ensuring the ricotta is well-drained prevents excess moisture that could affect the cake’s structure.

Mixing the batter gently and folding in the dry ingredients preserves the airiness, while careful baking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking and a golden crust without drying out the cake.

Adding the strawberries last and folding them gently prevents crushing, preserving the integrity and juiciness of the fruit throughout the cake.

Allowing the cake to cool fully before slicing helps maintain clean, attractive slices and enhances the flavor development.

Conclusion

Olive Oil Cake with Strawberries, Ricotta, and Cornmeal is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that masterfully balances richness and freshness. The cake’s tender crumb, enhanced by creamy ricotta and delicate cornmeal texture, pairs beautifully with the bright notes of lemon zest and fresh strawberries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

This cake embodies the essence of Mediterranean baking—simple, fresh, and full of natural flavors. It is versatile enough to be enjoyed casually or presented elegantly for special occasions. Its balanced nutritional profile, combined with its sophisticated flavor, makes it a delightful option for those seeking a refined yet accessible dessert.

Including this recipe on your website will provide readers with a unique and inspiring cake that celebrates wholesome ingredients and classic techniques. It invites home bakers to explore the rich traditions of Mediterranean desserts and enjoy a fresh, fruity treat that is both satisfying and beautiful.