If you’re looking for a deliciously indulgent dessert that balances rich chocolate with a refreshing citrus twist, then this Chocolate Orange Cake recipe is exactly what you need!
The deep cocoa flavor of the cake is perfectly complemented by the bright and zesty orange notes, creating a truly irresistible combination.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress.
This recipe features a moist, tender cake topped with a creamy chocolate-orange frosting, making it the ultimate dessert for chocolate and citrus lovers alike.
The addition of fresh orange zest and juice really brings out a fresh, tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the cake, making every bite feel like a new experience.
Ingredients List
To make this Chocolate Orange Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
Cake Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ¾ cup (145 grams) brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons (25 grams) white sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- Zest of half a large navel orange (~1 teaspoon)
- 1 cup (130 grams) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (40 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar
Chocolate Orange Frosting:
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick; 113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon fresh navel orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- ½ cup (40 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups (168 grams) powdered sugar
- 2 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
Required Kitchen Tools
Before you get started, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools on hand to help you bake your perfect Chocolate Orange Cake:
- Hand or Stand Mixer: While mixing the batter, a mixer will help achieve a smooth and well-combined texture. It also speeds up the process of creaming the butter and sugar together.
- Mixing Bowls: You will need several bowls to separate and mix the wet and dry ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture and flavor in the cake.
- Rubber Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and ensuring all ingredients are properly incorporated.
- 8-inch Round Cake Pans: This recipe works best with two 8-inch round cake pans, but you can also use a 9-inch pan if you prefer.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, use a cooling rack to cool your cakes evenly, which helps maintain their moisture and texture.
With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to make a delicious Chocolate Orange Cake that’s both visually stunning and mouth-wateringly good.
Preparing the Cake Batter
Now, let’s dive into preparing the cake batter! Here’s how you can create a soft, fluffy base that will perfectly complement the chocolate-orange frosting.
Creaming the Butter and Sugars
Start by beating the butter with both the brown sugar and white sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand or stand mixer on medium speed and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The sugars should fully dissolve into the butter, creating a smooth, pale-colored mixture. This is the base of your cake’s texture, so take your time!
Adding the Eggs and Orange Zest
Next, add the egg and egg yolk, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Beat well after each addition. Then, add the freshly grated orange zest. The zest will infuse the batter with that fresh citrus aroma, making the flavor pop in the finished cake.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients need to be evenly mixed to ensure the cake rises properly and the flavor is balanced. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, and mix until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the cake dense.
Adding the Vinegar
Lastly, add the white vinegar. The vinegar will react with the baking soda to help the cake rise and create a light, airy texture. Mix until smooth, then divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
Baking the Cake
Now that your batter is ready, it’s time to bake the cake. Baking is a crucial step in ensuring your Chocolate Orange Cake turns out perfectly light and moist.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you place the cake pans inside. This ensures even baking and helps the cake rise properly.
Baking the Cake Layers
Once the oven is ready, place the two cake pans in the center rack. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The edges of the cakes should also begin to pull away slightly from the sides of the pans.
Cooling the Cakes
After baking, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes. This allows the cakes to set slightly and prevents them from breaking when you remove them from the pans. Once the cakes have cooled slightly, turn them out onto a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
Tip: It’s essential to let the cakes cool completely before frosting them, as warm cakes can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
Preparing the Chocolate Orange Frosting
While the cake layers are cooling, it’s the perfect time to prepare the rich and creamy chocolate-orange frosting that will crown your cake.
Creaming the Butter and Cocoa Powder
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the cocoa powder, orange zest, and orange juice, and beat again until everything is fully combined. This creates a smooth, chocolatey base with a fresh citrus flavor.
Adding Powdered Sugar and Melted Chocolate
Gradually add the powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, add the melted semisweet chocolate. Beat the frosting until it is smooth, creamy, and easy to spread. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a teaspoon of milk at a time to achieve the desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust
Give the frosting a taste, and if you feel it needs a little more orange flavor, you can add a touch more orange zest or juice. The frosting should be a perfect balance of rich chocolate and bright citrus.
Assembling the Chocolate Orange Cake
Now that your cake layers are completely cooled and your frosting is ready, it’s time to assemble this beautiful Chocolate Orange Cake!
Leveling the Cakes
If your cakes have domed slightly on top during baking, you can level them with a serrated knife to create a flat, even surface. This ensures that your frosting will go on smoothly and that the layers will stack perfectly. Place one of the cake layers on a serving plate or cake stand.
Frosting the First Layer
Spread a generous amount of the chocolate-orange frosting over the top of the first cake layer. Use a butter knife or an offset spatula to spread the frosting evenly, making sure to cover the entire surface. You can apply a thicker layer of frosting if you like, but be mindful not to make it too thick, as it might overpower the delicate orange flavor.
Adding the Second Cake Layer
Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted base, making sure the sides are aligned. Gently press down to ensure the layers are set. If you like, you can refrigerate the cake for about 10-15 minutes to help the frosting firm up before applying the final layer of frosting.
Frosting the Entire Cake
Once the second layer is in place, use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the frosting out with an offset spatula, starting with the top and then working your way down the sides. You can create a rustic finish with a swooping motion or a perfectly smooth surface, depending on your preference.
Decorating Your Chocolate Orange Cake
Now that the cake is assembled and frosted, it’s time to add those final touches to make your cake as stunning as it is delicious.
Chocolate Shavings or Curls
For an elegant touch, consider decorating the top of the cake with some chocolate shavings or curls. You can make them by using a vegetable peeler to shave off strips from a block of semisweet or milk chocolate. Sprinkle them over the top of the cake for a decadent, textured look.
Orange Zest Garnish
To emphasize the fresh orange flavor and add a pop of color, garnish the cake with a little extra orange zest on top. This gives the cake a vibrant, citrusy finish that enhances both its visual appeal and its flavor.
Optional Toppings
- Candied Orange Slices: For an extra touch of elegance, you can decorate the cake with candied orange slices. Simply simmer orange slices in a sugar syrup until soft and then allow them to dry. These slices add a beautiful look and a hint of extra sweetness.
- Orange-Infused Syrup: If you prefer an extra burst of orange flavor, lightly drizzle orange-infused syrup over the cake layers before frosting them. This gives the cake a moist, flavorful kick.
Serving the Chocolate Orange Cake
Once your cake is assembled and decorated, it’s time to serve and enjoy this decadent treat. Here are some tips for serving:
How to Slice the Cake
Use a serrated knife to slice through the cake cleanly. If the frosting is too thick or the knife starts to drag, dip it in warm water and wipe it dry before cutting. This helps ensure that your slices are clean and beautiful. Serve each slice with a generous amount of frosting and a sprinkle of orange zest if desired.
Best Occasions to Serve This Cake
This Chocolate Orange Cake is perfect for any occasion that calls for a special dessert. Here are a few ideas for when to bake and serve it:
- Birthdays: A fantastic choice for a birthday cake, with its striking combination of rich chocolate and refreshing citrus flavor.
- Holiday Gatherings: The zesty orange flavor makes it a great option for holiday celebrations like Christmas or Easter.
- Afternoon Tea: Serve it as a showstopper dessert at an afternoon tea party, pairing beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or tea.
- Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a family get-together or a casual weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress your guests.
Storage Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here’s how to store your Chocolate Orange Cake to keep it fresh:
How to Keep the Cake Fresh
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The cake should stay moist and delicious, and the frosting will keep its smooth texture. If your room is especially warm, you may want to refrigerate the cake to prevent the frosting from softening too much. Just be sure to let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing the Cake
You can also freeze the Chocolate Orange Cake for longer storage. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. The cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. To thaw, remove the cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving. It will taste as fresh as the day you baked it!
Conclusion
This Chocolate Orange Cake is the perfect marriage of rich chocolate and bright, tangy orange, creating a dessert that’s both decadent and refreshing. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, this cake will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its fluffy texture, smooth chocolate-orange frosting, and optional decorative touches, this cake is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Follow the step-by-step instructions, and you’ll be rewarded with a show-stopping dessert that not only looks beautiful but tastes incredible. From the first bite to the last, this Chocolate Orange Cake is a treat that’s impossible to resist!
