Mediterranean Eggless Buttermilk Fruit Cake
Mediterranean Eggless Buttermilk Fruit Cake is a soft, moist, and gently spiced cake designed for everyday enjoyment as well as special occasions. It is lighter than traditional dense fruit cakes, with a tender crumb and balanced sweetness that lets the fruit shine. The buttermilk keeps the cake soft without eggs, while olive oil adds subtle richness and a Mediterranean touch. This cake works beautifully as a tea-time treat, a festive bake, or a simple dessert served with coffee. It is easy to prepare, forgiving for beginners, and stays moist for days, making it a reliable recipe you can return to again and again.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 45–50 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
A pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
1 cup buttermilk
¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup olive oil or neutral vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange or lemon
Fruits and Add-ins
½ cup chopped dates
½ cup raisins or sultanas
½ cup chopped dried apricots or mixed dried fruit
2 tablespoons flour (for coating fruit)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) and grease a standard loaf pan or round cake tin.
In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves.
Add olive oil, vanilla extract, and citrus zest to the wet mixture and mix well.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Toss the chopped dried fruits with 2 tablespoons of flour to prevent sinking.
Fold the coated fruits gently into the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–50 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Tips
Use room-temperature buttermilk for even mixing.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
Coat fruits in flour to distribute them evenly.
Choose soft, moist dried fruits for better texture.
Use good-quality olive oil with mild flavor.
Check doneness near the end to avoid overbaking.
Line the pan with parchment for easy removal.
Let the cake cool fully before slicing.
Store wrapped to maintain moisture.
Flavors improve the next day after resting.
Variations
Add chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch.
Replace olive oil with melted butter for richness.
Use whole wheat flour for a heartier cake.
Add a pinch of ground cloves for warmth.
Replace dates with dried figs.
Add orange juice glaze after baking.
Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
Add chocolate chips for a modern twist.
Soak fruits in warm tea or juice for extra moisture.
Bake as muffins for individual servings.
Q&A
Why is this cake eggless?
Buttermilk and baking soda provide structure and softness.
Can I make buttermilk at home?
Yes, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to 1 cup milk.
Is this cake very sweet?
No, sweetness is balanced by fruits and spices.
Can I use fresh fruit?
Dried fruit works best for texture and shelf life.
How long does it stay fresh?
Up to 4 days at room temperature when wrapped.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap well and freeze up to one month.
Why did my cake sink?
Overmixing or opening the oven too early.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, slightly, but it affects moisture.
Is olive oil flavor strong?
No, it stays subtle when baked.
Can kids enjoy this cake?
Yes, it is mild and family-friendly.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Slice)
Calories: 280–310
Protein: 4–5 g
Carbohydrates: 40–45 g
Fat: 12–14 g
Contains fiber, calcium, and natural sugars
Conclusion
Mediterranean Eggless Buttermilk Fruit Cake is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can create a comforting, reliable bake. It delivers moisture, flavor, and warmth without eggs, making it accessible and versatile. Whether enjoyed plain, lightly glazed, or paired with tea, this cake fits naturally into everyday life as well as festive moments. With its soft crumb, fragrant citrus notes, and fruit-filled bites, it is a recipe that feels familiar yet special, and one you will want to keep in your baking rotation.