Chocolate Olive Oil Cake by Hand

Asked by dewinolli. Answered on 23rd March 2014

Full question

Dear Nigella, Can I mix the ground almonds with all-purpose flour in 50/50 ratio? Thank you, really need your advice. Love, Dewi.

Would the Chocolate Olive Oil cake work if mixed by hand? Thanks, Li.

Our answer

Nigella's Chocolate Olive Oil Cake recipe (from Nigellissima and on the Nigella website) gives measurements for a version made with ground almonds (almond meal) and a version made with plain (all-purpose) flour. Whilst it may be possible to make a cake with a combination of the two ingredients, unfortunately we have only tested each cake individually with the flour and ground almonds so we regret that we are unable to advise on quantities.

It is possible to make the Chocolate Olive Oil cake by hand. Put the oil, eggs and sugar in a large bowl and beat with a wire balloon whisk until pale and frothy. Use a large metal spoon to fold in the cocoa mixture, followed by the flour or ground almonds.