The Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is an exquisite dessert that perfectly marries the richness of chocolate with the zesty brightness of orange. This delightful cake is great for get-togethers, special occasions, or as a delectable everyday treat. Whether you’re an expert baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and is bound to impress your family and friends. The harmonious blend of flavors makes it an intriguing choice for any chocolate lover looking for a twist.
Ingredients
To bake the perfect Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 190g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour: This provides the foundation of the cake, contributing to its structure and texture.
- 50g (1/2 cup) cocoa powder: This adds rich chocolate flavor and depth to the cake. Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best results.
- 1 tsp baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to enhance the rising of the cake, ensuring it has a perfect crumb.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- 200g (1 cup) sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the overall moist texture of the dessert.
- 120ml (1/2 cup) vegetable oil: This keeps the cake moist and adds richness. You can substitute with another neutral oil if desired.
- 2 large eggs: Provide moisture and act as a binding agent, helping to hold the cake together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A must-have for depth of flavor, enhancing the cake’s overall aroma.
- Zest of 1 orange: This brightens up the flavor profile and adds a refreshing citrus note.
- 120ml (1/2 cup) freshly squeezed orange juice: Brings additional moisture and a burst of tanginess to the cake.
- 120ml (1/2 cup) buttermilk: This helps create a tender crumb due to its acidity and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
- 90g (1/2 cup) chocolate chips: These melted bits of chocolate throughout the loaf add a delightful richness and texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare a standard loaf pan by greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring that your cake will release easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they are well combined. This process is essential for ensuring that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps the cake to rise uniformly.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, combine the sugar and vegetable oil. Mix well until the sugar is somewhat incorporated into the oil. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition for a uniform batter. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, and buttermilk, ensuring everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually pour the bowl of dry ingredients into the bowl of wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense texture. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan, making sure it is evenly spread. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so it’s advisable to keep an eye on it as it bakes.
Step 6: Cool the Cake
After baking, remove the loaf pan from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the cake to set slightly and makes it easier to transfer. After that, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cake has cooled adequately, slice it into generous pieces to serve. This delightful Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with a dusting of powdered sugar, a simple glaze, or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly delightful experience!
Serving Suggestions
- Glazed Cake: Drizzle a simple orange glaze over the top for added sweetness and an extra citrus kick.
- Chocolaty Indulgence: Top with chocolate ganache for a rich and decadent dessert.
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh oranges or berries to enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast.
- Ice Cream Delight: Enjoy warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream for a heavenly dessert.
Cooking Tips
- Egg Replacement: If you need to make this cake eggless, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens).
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and promotes proper mixing.
- Doneness Test: If you’re unsure if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Storage: The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor.
- Citrus Combo: Substitute the orange zest and juice with lemon zest and juice for a lemon-chocolate version.
- Extra Chocolate: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes! You can substitute vegetable oil with other neutral-flavored oils such as canola oil or melted coconut oil.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute: for every cup of buttermilk, mix one cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.
How long can I store this cake?
The cake can be stored covered at room temperature for about 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for about a week or frozen for up to 2-3 months—simply thaw before serving.
Can I add other flavors or mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts like almond or mint, or try adding dried fruit, chocolate chunks, or even a sprinkle of espresso powder for a mocha-inspired flavor.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is truly a treat for the senses with its lovely contrast of rich chocolate and bright, zesty orange. Its moist texture and delectable flavors make it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, brunch with friends, or a cozy night in. The simple yet effective approach of combining ingredients ensures that even novice bakers can achieve a wonderful result. Enjoy baking this loaf cake, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones—everyone deserves to enjoy a slice of this delightful creation!