Orange Semolina Olive Oil Cake

This orange semolina olive oil cake is moist, fragrant, and even better the next day. Made with fresh orange juice, zest, and extra-virgin olive oil for a beautifully tender loaf perfect for breakfast or a snack.

If you love a cake with a little bit of texture (not gritty, just pleasantly tender), this orange semolina olive oil cake is going to be your new favorite. It’s incredibly moist, fragrant from fresh orange zest, and the extra-virgin olive oil gives it a subtle richness that butter just can’t replicate. And here’s the best part — it tastes even better the next day. Yes, it’s worth the wait.

This is the kind of cake I love serving for breakfast with coffee or as an afternoon snack. It doesn’t need frosting, glaze, or anything fancy. Just slice and enjoy.

Why You’ll Like This Recipe

1. It has a beautiful soft crumb with a slight semolina texture that makes it more interesting than a regular loaf cake.
2. The combination of fresh orange juice, zest, and olive oil creates a bright, aromatic flavor.
3. It stays moist for days thanks to the olive oil and sour cream.
4. It tastes even better the next day as the semolina fully hydrates.
5. It’s simple and unfussy — no mixer needed, just a whisk and two bowls.

Ingredients and Substitutions

1. All-purpose flour – Provides structure. You can use cake flour for a softer crumb, but the texture will be lighter.
2. Fine semolina flour – Adds a delicate texture and helps the cake stay moist. Make sure it’s fine, not coarse.
3. Baking powder – Gives lift to the cake.
4. Baking soda – Works with the acidity in the orange juice and sour cream.
5. Salt – Enhances the orange flavor.
6. Eggs – Use large eggs at room temperature for best results.
7. Granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps with structure.
8. Full-fat sour cream – Adds richness and moisture. You can substitute with whole-milk Greek yogurt.
9. Extra-virgin olive oil – Use a good-quality one since you can taste it. Choose one that’s smooth, not overly peppery.
10. Fresh orange juice – Always use freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
11. Orange zest – Do not skip this. It intensifies the citrus aroma.
12. Vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor.

What to Serve This With

1. A cup of coffee or espresso for a simple breakfast.
2. Lightly sweetened whipped cream.
3. Plain Greek yogurt with fresh orange slices.
4. Fresh berries for a bright contrast.

Storage & Reheating

1. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. It stays moist and actually improves in texture the next day.
2. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. If you prefer it slightly warm, microwave a slice for about 10–15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does the cake taste better the next day?
   The semolina continues absorbing moisture after baking, making the crumb softer and more flavorful over time.
2. Can I use coarse semolina instead of fine?
   I don’t recommend it. Coarse semolina will create a gritty texture rather than a delicate crumb. The cake will have a drier texture too
3. Can I replace olive oil with vegetable oil?
   Yes, but you’ll lose the distinct flavor that makes this cake special.
4. Can I make this into muffins?
   Yes. Divide the batter into lined muffin tins and bake for about 20–25 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center of the muffin comes out clean with a bit of moist crumbs is fine
5. Why is there a wide baking time range?
   Loaf pan shapes vary. Wider pans bake faster, while deeper pans take longer.

I really love baking with semolina flour. It gives this cake just enough texture to make it interesting without feeling heavy. The combination of orange zest and olive oil is so fragrant and comforting. If you taste it the same day, you might think it’s good. But if you wait until the next day? It’s amazing. Moist, flavorful, and perfectly tender. This is one of those simple loaf cakes that doesn’t need frosting or glaze. Just slice, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and enjoy.