Name: Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups sugar; 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour; 6 tablespoons cacao powder; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 2/3 cup orange juice; 1 cup water; 2/3 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons vinegar; 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar; 5 ounces unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1 teaspoon orange extract; 1/2 teaspoon orange zest

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There is something truly magical about the blend of rich chocolate with the zesty brightness of citrus, and this Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe captures that harmony perfectly. Imagine a moist, fluffy cake infused with cocoa and fresh orange juice, layered with silky orange buttercream frosting that bursts with flavor in every bite. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that brings festive warmth and indulgence to any occasion, whether a cozy family gathering or an impressive party centerpiece. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your most cherished sweet treats to bake and share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six steps of making a chocolate cake. The first layer is a clear glass bowl with dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder, with different shades of brown and white powders mixed unevenly. The second is a white container holding a smooth layer of yellow melted butter. The third shows melted butter being poured into the dry mix, the butter gently covering the powder with a shiny texture. The fourth step is a glass bowl with a mixed dark brown chocolate batter, smooth and with small bubbles on the surface. The fifth image shows two round cake pans lined with crumpled brown baking paper filled with dark chocolate batter, ready for baking. The last image is a round dark brown baked cake with a rough and cracked surface placed on a turquoise plate, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to create a luscious texture and vibrant flavor. Each one plays a vital role: from the cocoa powder giving depth and richness, to the orange juice and zest lending a fresh citrus punch, and the combination of vinegar and baking soda ensuring a tender crumb. Let’s dive into the essentials that make this cake shine.

Sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness to balance the tartness of orange and bitterness of cacao.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and crumb that holds the cake together beautifully.
Cacao powder: Gives deep chocolate flavor and that irresistible dark color.
Baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to create a light and airy texture.
Orange juice: Infuses fresh citrus notes and moisture into the batter.
Water: Hydrates the dry ingredients while keeping the cake tender.
Vegetable oil: Ensures moistness and keeps the cake soft for days.
Vanilla extract: Adds subtle aromatic sweetness that enhances all flavors.
Vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise perfectly.
Powdered sugar: Used in the frosting for that smooth and sweet finish.
Orange extract: Amplifies the citrusy zing in the frosting.
Orange zest: Provides fragrant and colorful bursts of orange peel oils.
Unsalted butter (softened to room temperature): Key to creamy, smooth buttercream frosting.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 360 °F (180 °C) so it’s ready once the batter is mixed. In a large bowl, sift together the sugar, all-purpose flour, cacao powder, and baking soda. This ensures everything is evenly combined and sets the foundation for a well-risen chocolate orange cake.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the water, orange juice, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and vinegar. This mix not only brings moisture but also creates a chemical reaction between vinegar and baking soda that makes the cake wonderfully light and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the batter smooth but still tender, which will give you the perfect cake crumb.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Divide the batter evenly between the pans, then pop them into the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 5: Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 20 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling completely is important to avoid melting your buttercream frosting later on.

Step 6: Prepare the Orange Buttercream Frosting

For the frosting, blend powdered sugar, softened butter, orange zest, and orange extract in a bowl. Whisk everything together until the mixture forms stiff peaks and is creamy. This frosting beautifully complements the chocolate with bursts of zesty orange.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Take one cake layer and spread about two-thirds of the frosting on top. Place the second layer over it, then cover the entire cake—top and sides—with the remaining frosting. Smooth it out or create swirls for a more rustic look; either way, it will be gorgeous and delicious.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe

A round layered cake with a smooth pale yellow cream covering the top, sprinkled lightly with small orange zest pieces. On top, there are eight dark brown, elongated chocolate pieces arranged in a star shape, standing upright and evenly spaced in the center. The cake is placed on a dark green plate, set on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a white plate holding two small orange fruits beside a white ribbed cup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Dress your Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe with some elegant garnishes to enhance presentation and flavor. Sprinkle additional orange zest on top for a vibrant pop of color and aroma, or decorate with chocolate curls for a decadent touch. Fresh orange slices or edible flowers can add a stunning finishing touch perfect for entertaining guests.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with simple additions that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A cup of hot coffee or an orange-infused tea can balance the sweetness and make the dessert experience even more enjoyable.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking outside the box? Try slicing the cake into petite squares to create an elegant dessert platter or use it as a base for a trifle layered with orange curd and whipped cream. Another fun idea is to serve individual cake cups with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and candied orange peel for that wow factor at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, your Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to four days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent the cake from drying out and the frosting from absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to keep the cake for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place the frosted whole cake in a freezer-safe container. Frozen, the cake will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Since this cake is best enjoyed slightly chilled or at room temperature, reheating is generally not needed. However, if you prefer it warm, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds, avoiding overheating to keep the frosting intact and the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use fresh oranges instead of orange juice and extract?

Absolutely! Freshly squeezed orange juice and freshly grated orange zest make this cake even more fragrant and lively. Just be sure to strain the juice to avoid pulp, and remember that fresh zest is more potent than store-bought dried zest.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, so check the batter consistency and be gentle when mixing to maintain fluffiness.

Can I substitute butter with margarine in the frosting?

While margarine can be used, butter gives better flavor and texture in the frosting. If you do substitute, choose a high-quality margarine and make sure it’s soft enough to whip into a creamy consistency.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The best test is the toothpick check: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake and pull it out. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Overbaking can dry the cake, so keep an eye on the time as ovens vary.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a layered cake with this recipe?

Definitely! This batter adapts beautifully to cupcakes. Simply fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake at the same temperature for around 18-22 minutes. The buttercream frosting is perfect for piping on top once cooled.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe is a joyous celebration of two fantastic flavors coming together in a simple yet show-stopping dessert. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or to treat yourself on a quiet afternoon, this cake delivers moistness, citrus brightness, and chocolate richness all in one beautiful package. I can’t wait for you to enjoy making it as much as you’ll love savoring it!