Mediterranean Apple & Walnut Olive Oil Cake (Healthy, No Refined Sugar)
A soft, moist cake made with whole wheat flour, olive oil, apples, and walnuts, naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup. Subtle cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of orange zest make it aromatic and indulgent, but still healthy and Mediterranean-friendly. Perfect with tea or coffee.
⏱️ Time Required
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 50–55 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
1¼ cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
2 medium apples, peeled and grated
2 large eggs
⅓ cup olive oil
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup walnuts, chopped
Optional: zest of 1 orange
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat oven: 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20 cm (8-inch) round cake pan or line with parchment.
2. Mix dry ingredients: Flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, honey, yogurt, and vanilla (add orange zest if using).
4. Combine: Slowly fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Gently fold in grated apples and walnuts.
5. Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the cake cool 10–15 minutes in pan, then transfer to wire rack.
🌟 Tips
Use ripe, sweet apples for natural sweetness
Whole wheat flour keeps it fiber-rich
Add raisins or chopped dried figs (optional) for extra Mediterranean flavor
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a healthy twist
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Q: Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes—use only honey or maple syrup, skip any extra sugar.
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes—replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp flax + 6 tbsp water), and use plant-based yogurt.
Q: How to store?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or fridge for up to 5 days.
🧮 Nutritional Information
Calories: ~210 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fat: 11 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 12 g (from honey & apples)