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Chocolate Orange Cake

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Few desserts strike the perfect balance between richness and freshness like a Chocolate Orange Cake. The deep, velvety flavor of cocoa meets the zesty brightness of oranges in this show-stopping treat. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a citrus fan, or both, this cake delivers a harmonious combination that feels indulgent yet refreshing.

Moist chocolate sponge layers are enhanced with fresh orange juice and zest, sandwiched with a luscious orange marmalade cream, and finished with a glossy chocolate ganache glaze. The result? A dessert that looks elegant, tastes luxurious, and works beautifully for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

Let’s walk through how to make this delightful cake step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is divided into three parts: the cake layers, the filling, and the ganache. Each plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

For the Cake Layers

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp orange zest (from 1–2 oranges)

For the Filling

  • 1 cup orange marmalade
  • ½ cup whipped cream (lightly sweetened)

For the Ganache

  • 1 cup dark chocolate, melted
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Optional garnish: fresh orange slices, candied orange peel, or chocolate curls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, vegetable oil, fresh orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest. The orange zest enhances the citrus aroma and ensures the orange flavor doesn’t get lost against the chocolate.
  4. Create the batter: Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth and lump-free, but be careful not to overmix—this can make the cake dense.
  5. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cool completely before assembling.

Making the Filling

  1. Whip the cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form.
  2. Combine with marmalade: Gently fold the whipped cream into the orange marmalade to create a light, fruity filling. This step ensures the layers stay moist and bursting with orange flavor.

Preparing the Ganache

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until just simmering. Do not let it boil.
  2. Pour the hot cream over the melted dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes to soften.
  3. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. If needed, allow it to cool slightly until it reaches a pourable but thick consistency.

Assembling the Chocolate Orange Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
  2. Spread the marmalade cream filling evenly over the top.
  3. Gently place the second cake layer on top, pressing lightly to secure.
  4. Pour the ganache glaze over the cake, allowing it to drip naturally down the sides for a professional look.
  5. Garnish with orange slices, candied orange peel, or chocolate curls for decoration.
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Tips for Success

  • Use fresh oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest deliver a much brighter and more authentic citrus flavor compared to bottled juice.
  • Don’t skip the zest: The zest contains essential oils that bring the orange flavor to life, preventing the chocolate from overpowering it.
  • Balance sweetness: Orange marmalade can vary in sweetness. Taste before mixing with whipped cream; if too sweet, balance with a splash of lemon juice.
  • Ganache consistency: If your ganache is too thin, let it cool for 10 minutes before pouring. If it’s too thick, stir in a teaspoon of warm cream until smooth.
  • Make it ahead: The cake layers can be baked a day before. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Assemble the cake the next day for convenience.

Serving Suggestions

  • This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso or strong black coffee, balancing the richness of chocolate and the brightness of orange.
  • Serve chilled for a firm ganache finish, or at room temperature for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • For a festive presentation, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top and add chocolate-dipped orange slices.

Storing and Freezing

  • Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
  • Freezing: Unfrosted cake layers freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the ganache?
Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate is sweeter. You may want to reduce the sugar in the cake slightly to keep the balance.

What can I substitute for orange marmalade in the filling?
Apricot jam works beautifully as an alternative, offering a similar sweet-tart citrus flavor.

Can I make this as a loaf or bundt cake instead of layers?
Absolutely. Pour the batter into a greased bundt or loaf pan and adjust baking time to 40–45 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.

Why did my cake turn out dry?
Dry cake usually results from overbaking or using too little liquid. Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer and ensure you measure the orange juice correctly.

Can I add liqueur for extra flavor?
Yes! A splash of Grand Marnier or Cointreau in the ganache or filling enhances the orange flavor and adds sophistication.

Is this cake suitable for celebrations?
Definitely. Its elegant appearance and balanced flavor profile make it perfect for birthdays, dinner parties, and holiday gatherings.

The Chocolate Orange Cake is a timeless dessert that combines indulgent chocolate with refreshing citrus. With its tender crumb, tangy marmalade filling, and glossy ganache finish, it’s a cake that delights both the eyes and the palate. By following these steps and tips, you can create a cake that feels both luxurious and comforting—a true centerpiece for any occasion.