Rich, decadent, and utterly divine, this olive oil cake is the perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor, juicy pears, and a nutty almond crunch.

This post is written in collaboration with Colavita. All opinions are mine alone.

If you're looking for a dessert that's as elegant as it is indulgent, this chocolate-pear olive oil almond cake is the perfect choice.

Rich dark chocolate, juicy pears, crunchy and nutty almond slices and almond flour come together in this stunning dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season ... or any occasion, really!

This chocolate cake is super simple to prepare, yet looks and feels sophisticated enough for special gatherings. Take a look!

Before diving into the recipe, here are a few tips and tricks to ensure your cake turns out perfectly:

Baking Tips:

Choose Quality Ingredients:

The flavor of this cake shines when you use high-quality ingredients. Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich, intense flavor, and use a smooth, flavorful olive oil like Colavita to complement the chocolate and pears.

Pears to Choose From:

Select pears that are ripe and juicy but not overly soft. Varieties like Bartlett or Anjou work beautifully, lending natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.

Extra Moisture Boost:

For an extra burst of pear flavor, dice an additional pear into small cubes and gently fold it into the batter. This addition makes the cake even more moist and fruity.

Do Not Overmix:

As I always say, when combining the dry ingredients, be sure to mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which could make the cake dense.

Do Not Overbake:

Also, it's very important to keep a close eye on the baking time. Overbaking can dry out the cake, so test for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.

Serving Suggestions:

This cake is delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate fudge sauce.
For a lighter option, dust the top with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt.

Storage Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will keep for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to revive its soft, rich texture.
If you want to plan ahead, this cake also freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Defrost at room temperature for a quick treat anytime.