We’re here to support your sweet cravings with a show-stopping dessert that brings the best of both worlds—rich, indulgent chocolate and the bright, refreshing zest of orange. Whether you’re planning a celebration, baking for the holidays, or just treating yourself, this Chocolate Orange Cake recipe will not disappoint. It’s moist, flavorful, and truly unforgettable.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a perfectly balanced Chocolate Orange Cake from scratch. We’ll cover essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, expert baking tips, delicious variations, and answers to your most frequently asked questions.
Let’s get baking!
What Makes Chocolate Orange Cake So Special?
Chocolate and orange are a match made in heaven. The bitterness of dark chocolate complements the bright, tangy citrus flavor of orange, resulting in a cake that’s as elegant as it is satisfying. It’s ideal for birthdays, tea time, dinner parties, or even festive occasions like Christmas and Easter.
Key Highlights:
- Rich, velvety chocolate cake base
- Fresh orange juice and zest for natural citrus flavor
- Silky ganache with an orange twist
- Customizable with toppings, fillings, and layers
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this luscious cake. We’ve broken it down into sections to make preparation easier.
For the Cake Layers:
- 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tbsp freshly grated orange zest
- ¾ cup (180ml) fresh orange juice (from 2-3 oranges)
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 4 oz (115g) dark chocolate, melted and cooled slightly
For the Chocolate Orange Ganache:
- 6 oz (170g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
Optional Garnishes:
- Candied orange slices
- Chocolate curls or shavings
- Extra zest or edible gold flakes
How to Make Chocolate Orange Cake: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these clear instructions to achieve bakery-style results every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Pans and Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together:
- All-purpose flour
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Vegetable oil
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
Whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in:
- Orange zest
- Orange juice
- Buttermilk
- Vanilla extract
Step 4: Add Melted Chocolate
Fold in the melted dark chocolate and stir until everything is smooth and well-blended.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix—a few small lumps are fine.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Orange Chocolate Ganache
While your cakes are cooling, prepare the ganache.
Instructions:
- Heat the cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heat-safe bowl.
- Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Stir in orange zest and juice.
- Allow to cool slightly until thickened but still spreadable.
Assembling the Cake
Now comes the fun part—bringing it all together.
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a generous amount of ganache on top.
- Add the second layer and pour ganache over the top, smoothing it down the sides.
- Garnish with candied orange slices, chocolate curls, or a sprinkle of zest for a stunning finish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days when properly wrapped.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 3 months.
To thaw, let sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients ensure even mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overbake—start checking at 28 minutes to avoid a dry cake.
- Use high-quality chocolate for both the cake and ganache to elevate the overall taste.
Delicious Variations
Want to make this cake your own? Here are a few creative twists:
1. Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
Instead of ganache, try a cream cheese frosting with a hint of orange zest. It’s tangy, creamy, and pairs beautifully with chocolate.
2. Orange Liqueur Infusion
For an adult-friendly version, add 1–2 tablespoons of Grand Marnier or Cointreau to the ganache or cake batter.
3. Cupcake Version
Turn this recipe into about 18 cupcakes and reduce the baking time to 18–20 minutes.
4. Add Crunch
Fold in chopped walnuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts to add a nutty texture to each bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bottled orange juice?
A: While you can, freshly squeezed juice is strongly recommended for the best flavor. Bottled juice may taste flat or overly sweet.
Q: What type of chocolate is best for this cake?
A: Use dark or semi-sweet chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for a deep, rich flavor.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and make sure your cocoa and chocolate are certified gluten-free.
Q: Do I need buttermilk?
A: Yes, it helps with moisture and acidity. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup milk with ½ tbsp vinegar or lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The Chocolate Orange Cake is incredibly versatile. It’s festive enough for Christmas, romantic enough for Valentine’s Day, and indulgent enough for birthdays. Its beautiful appearance and balanced flavor profile make it a winning dessert every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the blend of dark chocolate and vibrant orange. This Chocolate Orange Cake recipe is not only easy to follow but also guarantees stunning results that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you’re baking for loved ones or indulging yourself, this cake promises a burst of joy in every bite. So roll up your sleeves, zest those oranges, and treat yourself to one of the most flavorful cakes you’ll ever bake.