Chocolate Orange Cake: A Decadent Citrus-Infused Dessert
This irresistible Chocolate Orange Cake combines rich cocoa flavors with bright citrus notes for a dessert that’s both sophisticated and comforting. The perfect balance of bittersweet chocolate and zesty orange creates a flavor profile that delights the palate, while the moist crumb and velvety ganache make each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a special treat, this cake delivers on both taste and presentation.
The magic of this Chocolate Orange Cake recipe lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients. Fresh orange zest infuses the batter with aromatic citrus oils, while high-quality dark chocolate provides depth and richness. The ganache topping adds a luxurious finish that makes this dessert look as impressive as it tastes. With its beautiful contrast of dark chocolate and vibrant orange accents, this cake is sure to become your new go-to for celebrations and cozy nights alike.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: The perfect marriage of rich dark chocolate and bright orange citrus creates a sophisticated yet approachable taste experience.
- Texture: Moist, tender crumb with a silky chocolate ganache topping that melts in your mouth.
- Aroma: The scent of orange zest and warm chocolate will fill your kitchen as this cake bakes.
- Visual Appeal: The dark chocolate glaze contrasts beautifully with orange zest garnishes for an elegant presentation.
- Skill Level Needed: Requires basic baking skills but delivers professional-quality results.
- Special Equipment: You’ll need a 9-inch round cake pan and a zester for the best results.
The Recipe
Chocolate Orange Cake
Serves: 10
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Zester
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 large oranges
- 1 cup boiling water
- 8 oz dark chocolate (for ganache)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
- Orange slices and zest for garnish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add milk, oil, vanilla, and orange zest.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Carefully stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour into prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
- For ganache: Heat cream until steaming, pour over chopped chocolate, let sit 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Once cake is completely cool, pour ganache over top, allowing it to drip down sides. Garnish with orange zest and slices.
Recipe Notes
- For extra orange flavor, brush cooled cake with orange simple syrup before adding ganache.
- Substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter ganache if preferred.
- Cake can be made 1 day ahead – store covered at room temperature.
