Ani's Kitchen Stories

This Maize Flour Olive Oil Lime Cake is a refreshing twist on the classic olive oil cake. With the nutty texture of cornmeal, the richness of olive oil, and the zesty brightness of lime, it’s a cake that’s both rustic and elegant.

The crumb is moist yet slightly grainy, making each bite unique. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee. The light dusting of icing sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness and makes it look beautiful on the table.

Why you’ll make this cake?

Gluten-light: Uses maize flour for a wholesome, hearty texture.

Dairy light: Uses olive oil instead of butter, making it lighter and heart-healthy.

Citrus freshness: Lime juice and zest add a refreshing burst of flavour.

Versatile: Works as an everyday tea cake or even as a dessert with whipped cream or icecream.

Ingredients:

• 70 gms maize flour / fine cornmeal

• 100 gms all-purpose flour (maida)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• Pinch of salt

• 80 gms sugar (powdered)

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 large eggs (at room temperature)

• Zest of 2 limes

• 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1/4 cup buttermilk 

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Icing sugar (for dusting, optional)

Method:

• Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).

• Grease and line an 8-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.

• In large bowl, whisk egg, sugar and olive oil until light and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and whisk further. 

• In the same bowl sift together maize flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold and whisk the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. 

• Stir in buttermilk, lime zest and lime juice. 

• Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).

• Pour batter into prepared tin.

• Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Cool the cake completely on a wire rack.

• Dust with icing sugar before slicing. Enjoy!

Notes:

For a richer citrusy flavour, replace lime with orange zest and juice.

Add a handful of chopped nuts (like almonds or pistachios) for extra crunch.

Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream