Chocolate Orange Cake with Zesty Frosting

Paula

Daily Culinary Pleasures

Delicious Chocolate Orange Cake with Zesty Frosting displayed on a plate

Indulge in a Delicious Dessert Experience

Chocolate Orange Cake with Zesty Frosting is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with a hint of citrus. The flavors work beautifully together to create a cake that is both moist and flavorful. This cake is perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence after dinner.

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe

This cake stands out because of its unique blend of chocolate and orange. The citrus brightens up the chocolate, giving it a fresh taste that is different from the usual chocolate cakes. The zesty frosting adds a perfect finishing touch, making every bite a little bit special. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that your friends and family will love!

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cake with Zesty Frosting

Ingredients

2 cups (250g) flour
3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 + 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
3/4 cup (180ml) vegetable oil
3 eggs
1 cup (250ml) buttermilk (or: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit for 10 minutes)
1/4 cup (60ml) fresh orange juice
1 tbsp grated orange zest
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup (120ml) hot coffee or hot water
250g butter (at room temperature)
4 + 1/2 cups (540g) powdered sugar (sifted)
3 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tbsp grated orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 egg yolks (optional for orange curd)
1/2 cup (100g) sugar (optional for orange curd)
1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice (optional for orange curd)
30g butter (optional for orange curd)
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional for orange curd)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F) and grease three 20 cm (8 inch) cake pans.
In a bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla.
Combine the dry and wet ingredients until they are smooth. Then stir in the hot coffee or water.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely.
For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, and then mix in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla.
If you want to make optional orange curd, combine the egg yolks, sugar, orange juice, butter, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it thickens, then let it cool.
To assemble the cake, place the first layer on a plate and spread it with orange curd or frosting. Repeat with the other layers. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, and garnish as desired.
Allow the cake to rest for 1-2 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.

Enjoying Your Chocolate Orange Cake

Serve this delicious cake as a show-stopping dessert at your next family gathering or special event. Each slice offers a burst of flavor, making it ideal for coffee breaks or casual get-togethers.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Chocolate Orange Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for about three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months.

Tips for the Perfect Bake

Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting; this helps the frosting stay in place.
If you want an extra kick of flavor, add more orange zest to the frosting.

Variations to Try

You can add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey experience, or try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch. If you love citrus, consider using lemon or lime zest in the frosting for a different flavor twist.

Nutritional Information

This recipe makes about 12 servings, and one slice contains approximately:

Calories: 380
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Sugars: 30g
Protein: 5g

Serving Suggestions for Family Gatherings

Pair this delicious cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries on the side can also add a nice touch and complement the flavors perfectly.

Perfect Pairings

Enjoy this cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. It also pairs well with a glass of sparkling water for something refreshing.

Common Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cakes in advance, freeze them, and then frost them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different types of flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, but the texture might slightly change.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is baked through.

Chocolate Orange Cake with Zesty Frosting

A delightful cake that combines rich chocolate with a hint of citrus, perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 380 kcal