A moist Mediterranean-style cake that uses extra virgin olive oil for richness and a bright, citrusy sumac sugar topping.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

For the Sumac Sugar

• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground sumac
• Optional: ½ tsp finely grated lemon zest

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven

• Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
• Grease and line an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl:

• Beat eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
• Slowly whisk in olive oil.
• Add milk (or yogurt), vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

4. Combine

• Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
• Do not overmix.

5. Bake

• Pour batter into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

6. Make the Sumac Sugar

Mix together:

• Sugar
• Sumac
• Lemon zest (if using)

7. Finish

While the cake is still slightly warm:

• Sprinkle the sumac sugar generously over the top.
• The warmth helps the sugar adhere and creates a lightly crisp topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Greek yogurt or whipped cream.
• Pair with fresh berries, figs, or citrus segments.
• Excellent with coffee, mint tea, or a drizzle of honey.

Flavor Notes

The fruity character of quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil gives the cake richness, while the tangy, lemon-like flavor of Sumac balances the sweetness and adds a distinctive Middle Eastern twist.