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Lemon Olive Oil Cake with Thyme & Berries

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Mediterranean-Inspired, Plant-Forward
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
A bright, tender lemon olive oil cake with fresh thyme, citrus, berries, and a moist golden crumb.
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Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves finely chopped

For Finishing

  • 1 cup fresh berries
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Fresh thyme sprigs optional
  • Lemon zest optional
  • Whipped cream or coconut cream optional
  • Honey or maple syrup optional

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  • Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt in a medium bowl.
  • In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until smooth and slightly pale.
  • Add olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla, and thyme. Whisk until combined.
  • Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
  • Pour batter into prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  • Bake for 35–42 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  • Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries before serving.
  • Garnish with lemon zest, thyme, whipped cream, or a light drizzle of honey if desired.

Notes

Use a smooth, fruity olive oil for the best flavor. Add berries just before serving so they stay fresh and vibrant.