Description

This Chocolate Orange Cake is a rich, moist dessert that blends the deep flavor of chocolate with the bright zest of orange. Perfectly balanced between indulgent and refreshing, it’s ideal for holidays, dinner parties, or a special homemade treat.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

2 tablespoons orange zest

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water or hot coffee

Optional: 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks

Optional: 1/2 teaspoon orange extract (for enhanced flavor)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, beat sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add milk, oil, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Stir in hot water or coffee to thin the batter and deepen flavor.
Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Divide batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Frost with chocolate ganache, orange buttercream, or dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For a stronger citrus flavor, add a few drops of orange extract.

Can be baked as a bundt cake or loaf—adjust baking time accordingly.

Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Top with candied orange peel or glossy chocolate glaze for an elegant finish.

Store slices in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg