Can You Use Olive Oil In Cake Mix?

Cake mixes come in very handy when you’re short on time and ingredients but want to whip up a fresh batch of cake. They’re simpler to store and can come together quickly with just a few staple pantry ingredients such as eggs, milk/water, and butter/oil.

QUICK ANSWER: Yes, you can use olive oil in the cake mix, although it can be hard to think that olive oil has a place in your cakes. Adding olive oil to your cake mix can make your cake come moist, soft, and spongy. Generally, you can substitute olive oil for other cooking oil in most dessert recipes.

While few recipes call for melted butter, most use oils like canola, vegetable, and olive oil. They are preferred because they are healthier and produce moister cakes, and extra virgin olive oil is considered one of the most nourishing cooking oils.

Types of Olive Oil

Olive oil is produced when olives are crushed, and the oil is extracted chemically or mechanically. It is mainly composed of triglycerides and small quantities of free fatty acids, glycerol, phosphatides, pigments, and flavor compounds.

Depending on the extraction method, there are five types of olive oil, each with a different smoke point determining its usage. 

The five types are:

• Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO).
• Pure olive oil.
• Virgin olive oil.
• Olive pomace oil.
• Refined olive oil. 

Of the five, EVOO has the best quality because it is extracted without heat or chemicals, preserving its natural content and making it one of the safest cooking oils. 

How To Use Olive Oil In Cake Mix

There are many cake mix brands, but they all have similar instructions for preparation. Some examples are Betty Crocker, Duncan Hines, and Pillsbury. 

Most cake mix boxes come in a 15oz (432g) package. To prepare one pack, you’ll need to mix in the following;

• 1 cup of water/ milk (use milk for a richer taste)
• 2 – 3 eggs
• ½ – ⅓ cup of olive oil
• 1 – 2 teaspoons of your choice of flavoring (optional but recommended)

When everything is combined, transfer to a pan and bake at the given temperature until a toothpick comes out clean.

How To Substitute Butter For Oil In Cake Mix

To replace butter with olive oil, use a 3:4 ratio (for every cup of butter, use ¾ cup of oil). Use the proper cups when measuring, or use a scale for more accurate results. 

Use a ratio of 1:1 when it comes to vegetable oil or other types.

Does Baking With Olive Oil Change The Taste?

Yes, it does. Its distinct flavor and fruity aroma enhance the warm spices and flavors of other ingredients commonly used in baked goods.  

Since it tends to be overpowering due to its strong flavor, it is best used in cakes with additional ingredients, like spicy or citrusy cakes.

If you don’t like the taste of olive oil, consider using “light” olive oil or neutral-flavored oils like canola or vegetable oil.

How Does It Affect The Texture?

Because olive oil is liquid at room temperature, it intensifies the texture by adding unbeatable levels of richness and moisture to cakes and other baked goods. 

Pro Tips For Baking With Cake Mix

• Use EVOO for the best flavor and taste results.
• Replace water with milk.
• Use room temperature ingredients.
• Feel free to customize with various flavorings, add-ins, and toppings. Add in dried fruits or chocolate chips.

Does Olive Oil Burn Off When Baking?

No, it does not. Oil has reached or exceeded its smoke point when it starts to burn. Like most vegetable oils, olive oil has a smoke point between 370°F to 450°F depending on the type.

You don’t have to worry about burning your baked goods if you keep your baking temperature below that range. Be sure to confirm the smoke point of whichever one you use and adjust your oven temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re using a cake mix or baking from scratch, olive oil is an excellent addition because of the moisture and richness it adds and its various health benefits. 

For better results, use high-quality olive oil and ingredients and use the tips mentioned above.