Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake Recipe
Prepare yourself for a delightful baking adventure that promises a truly exceptional treat. This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake stands out for so many reasons, quickly becoming a firm favorite in any household. First and foremost, the flavor profile is simply divine.
The bright, zesty notes of fresh orange beautifully cut through the rich, comforting depth of chocolate, creating a perfectly balanced symphony for your taste buds. It’s not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavors to truly shine. Next, you will appreciate its incredible moistness.
Achieving that perfect, tender crumb is a hallmark of a great loaf cake, and this recipe delivers every single time. It stays moist for days, making it ideal for making ahead or enjoying over several sittings. Furthermore, the simplicity of a loaf cake cannot be overstated.
Unlike more elaborate layer cakes, this Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is wonderfully unfussy. It requires no complex decorating, yet it looks absolutely stunning with a simple drizzle of ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar. This makes it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike who want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Finally, it’s remarkably versatile. You can enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, serve it as an elegant afternoon tea accompaniment, or present it as a delightful dessert after dinner. This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake truly offers something for everyone, making it an essential addition to your baking repertoire.
You will love how easily this orange chocolate loaf comes together, offering a rich reward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this delightful Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is the first step towards a truly exceptional treat. Make sure everything is at room temperature for the best results, as this ensures a smooth, well-emulsified batter.
For the Loaf Cake:
* 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
* ¾ cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder, Dutch-processed for richer color
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* ½ teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
* 3 large eggs, at room temperature
* 1 cup (240ml) full-fat milk, at room temperature (or buttermilk for extra tang)
* 2 tablespoons fresh orange zest (from about 2 large oranges)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup (85g) chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
For the Orange Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended):
* 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice (from the same oranges you zested)
* ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Substitutions & Variations
This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment and make this delicious chocolate orange cake your own!
Flour Alternatives: You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber, though the texture will be a bit denser. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. Ensure it’s suitable for cakes, and you might need to add a touch more liquid if the batter seems too thick.
Dairy Substitutions: If you don’t have full-fat milk, use any dairy milk you prefer. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk all work beautifully. You can also use dairy-free butter substitutes. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free if you need to make the entire Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake vegan.
Fat Options: While butter provides a rich flavor, you can use an equal amount of vegetable oil (such as canola or sunflower) for a slightly lighter texture. If using oil, the cake might be a little less rich but will still be incredibly moist.
Citrus Twists: Not a fan of orange, or just want to try something different?
* Lemon: Substitute orange zest and juice with lemon zest and juice for a vibrant lemon chocolate loaf.
* Lime: A lime chocolate loaf would offer a more tart and exotic flavor.
* Grapefruit: For an adventurous, subtly bitter note, try grapefruit.
Always use fresh zest and juice for the best flavor in your citrus chocolate cake.
Chocolate Choices: The recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, but feel free to vary the type of chocolate.
* Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for a more intense chocolate experience.
* Milk Chocolate: For a sweeter, creamier profile, milk chocolate chips work well, especially if serving to children.
* White Chocolate: White chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for a different flavor dynamic. You could even drizzle melted white chocolate over the orange glaze for an elegant finish on this wonderful Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake.
Add-ins & Toppings:
* Nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the batter for added texture and flavor.
* Dried Fruit: Dried cranberries or cherries pair wonderfully with chocolate and orange. Add ½ cup to the batter.
* Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny amount of ground ginger can complement the chocolate and orange flavors beautifully, making this orange chocolate loaf even more aromatic.
* Different Glazes: Instead of an orange glaze, consider a simple chocolate ganache (melted chocolate with a touch of cream) or a plain vanilla glaze for your chocolate orange cake.
* Candied Orange Peel: For an extra touch of gourmet, fold in some homemade or store-bought candied orange peel into the batter, or sprinkle it over the glaze of your finished Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake.
By trying these substitutions and variations, you can truly personalize this outstanding Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake and enjoy it in many delicious forms.
This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. To explore more delicious variations, check out our Carrot Cake Muffins with Creamy Frosting, which also offers a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this delicious Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these steps carefully, and you will have a beautiful, fragrant cake ready to enjoy.
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides to easily lift the loaf out later. This ensures your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake won’t stick.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined, removing any lumps.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 3-5 minutes. Scraping down the sides of the bowl periodically ensures everything gets incorporated evenly for your chocolate orange loaf.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture might look slightly curdled at this stage, but it will come together once the dry ingredients are added.
5. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Add about a third of the dry mixture, mix until just combined, then half of the milk, mix, then another third of the dry, the remaining milk, and finally the last third of the dry mixture. Do not overmix; mix just until no streaks of flour remain. Overmixing develops gluten and can lead to a tough Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake.
6. Fold in Zest and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the fresh orange zest and chocolate chips. Use a spatula for this step to avoid overmixing.
7. Pour into Pan and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake the Loaf Cake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean. Baking times can vary, so start checking around the 50-minute mark. The aroma of this baking chocolate orange cake will fill your kitchen!
9. Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the loaf cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the cake firm up before you remove it.
10. Remove from Pan and Cool Completely: After the initial cooling, carefully lift the Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang (if used) or invert it onto the wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before glazing or slicing. This is crucial for the best texture and prevents the cake from crumbling.
11. Prepare and Apply Glaze (Optional): While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and optional orange zest in a small bowl until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit more juice; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Once the Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.
Enjoy every delicious slice of your homemade Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving a perfect Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake every time involves a few simple tricks that make all the difference. These pro tips will help you bake a moist, flavorful, and beautifully structured cake that everyone will rave about.
* Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: This is perhaps the most important tip for any baking. Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are all at room temperature. Room temperature ingredients emulsify more effectively, creating a smoother, more uniform batter that traps air better.
This leads to a lighter, more tender crumb in your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake. If you forget to take eggs out, place them in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes.
* Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense, and dry loaf cake. A few small streaks of flour are acceptable; they will disappear during baking. Gentleness is paramount for a delicate chocolate orange cake.
* Zest the Orange Before Juicing: Always zest your oranges before you cut them in half to juice them. It’s much easier to get all the flavorful zest from a firm, whole orange. Remember, you only want the bright orange part of the peel, not the bitter white pith underneath.
* Even Distribution of Orange Zest: For maximum orange flavor throughout your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake, rub the orange zest into the granulated sugar with your fingertips before adding the butter. This releases the oils from the zest, infusing the sugar with incredible aroma and flavor.
* Test for Doneness Properly: A wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf should come out clean. If you see wet batter, it needs more time. However, if it comes out with moist crumbs, it’s usually done. Overbaking is the enemy of a moist loaf cake, so keep a close eye on it towards the end of the baking time.
* Cool Completely Before Glazing and Slicing: Resist the urge to glaze or slice your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake while it’s warm. A warm cake will absorb the glaze, making it less visible, and it’s more prone to crumbling when sliced. Allowing it to cool completely on a wire rack ensures it sets properly, making for clean slices and a perfectly set glaze.
* Use Good Quality Cocoa Powder and Chocolate: The quality of your cocoa powder and chocolate chips significantly impacts the flavor of your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake. Use a good quality unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a rich, dark color and mellow chocolate flavor. High-quality chocolate chips also melt beautifully and provide excellent flavor.
* Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Lining your loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides, makes removing the cooled Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake incredibly easy and mess-free. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures your beautiful loaf comes out in one piece.
By following these simple pro tips, you’re well on your way to baking a truly spectacular and moist Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake that will impress everyone!
Achieving a perfect Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake every time involves a few simple tricks that make all the difference. For additional citrus flavor inspiration, consider trying the Orange Creamsicle Cake: Soft, Creamy, and Bursting with Citrus.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Ensuring your delicious Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake stays fresh and enjoyable is key. Proper storage will maintain its wonderful flavor and moist texture for days.
Storing Your Loaf Cake:
* At Room Temperature: Once the Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If it’s glazed, ensure the glaze has fully set before placing it in the container. The airtight seal prevents it from drying out and keeps it wonderfully fresh.
A cake dome also works well.
* In the Refrigerator: While not strictly necessary for this type of cake, you can refrigerate it for extended freshness, especially if your kitchen is very warm or humid, or if it has a cream cheese frosting (though this recipe uses a simple glaze). Wrap the cooled loaf cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container.
It will last up to a week in the fridge. Be aware that refrigeration can sometimes slightly alter the texture of cakes, making them a little denser.
* Freezing for Longer Storage: The Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake freezes beautifully!
This is a fantastic option if you want to make it ahead or save some for later. Once completely cooled, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Tips:
* From Room Temperature: No reheating necessary! Simply slice and enjoy.
* From the Refrigerator: If refrigerated, let the slices come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
This will allow the flavors to soften and the cake to become tender again.
* From the Freezer:
* Whole Loaf: Transfer the wrapped loaf from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to serve it. Once thawed, let it come to room temperature for an hour or two before unwrapping and slicing.
* Individual Slices: You can thaw individual slices at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. For a quick warm treat, you can gently microwave a slice for 15-30 seconds, or toast it lightly in a toaster oven for a slightly crispy exterior. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out your chocolate orange cake.
Always ensure your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is completely cool before any form of storage to prevent condensation and sogginess. Following these tips guarantees you can enjoy this delicious orange chocolate loaf for days to come!
What to Serve With This Recipe
This delightful Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or dessert, here are some perfect companions for your chocolate orange cake:
* A Hot Beverage: Nothing beats a classic pairing.
* Coffee: A strong cup of black coffee or a creamy latte provides a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the cake. The robust notes of coffee enhance the deep chocolate flavor.
* Tea: A cup of Earl Grey tea with its bergamot notes perfectly complements the orange in the loaf cake. English Breakfast or even a spiced chai would also be delightful.
* Hot Chocolate: For the ultimate chocolate lover, a rich, warm hot chocolate or mocha makes for an indulgent combination with this already decadent Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake.
* Creamy Additions:
* Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream, perhaps lightly sweetened with a touch of vanilla or orange liqueur, adds a luxurious lightness.
* Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream melting slightly over a warm slice of the loaf cake is pure bliss.
The coolness and creaminess are a fantastic counterpoint to the cake’s richness.
* Crème Fraîche or Sour Cream: For a sophisticated touch, a spoonful of crème fraîche or sour cream offers a slight tang that beautifully balances the sweetness of the chocolate orange cake.
* Fresh Fruit:
* Fresh Orange Segments: Emphasize the orange flavor by serving alongside fresh, supremed orange segments. The natural juiciness and slight tartness are refreshing.
* Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries provides a lovely color contrast and a burst of fruity freshness that complements both chocolate and orange.
* Complementary Sauces:
* Chocolate Sauce/Ganache: If you skipped the glaze, a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache or a simple chocolate sauce can add an extra layer of decadence.
* Orange Curd: A small dollop of homemade or good quality orange curd alongside a slice of this Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake amplifies the citrus notes beautifully.
* A Glass of Dessert Wine: For an adult pairing, a small glass of Moscato d’Asti or a dessert wine with orange notes can be a surprisingly elegant match for this sophisticated chocolate orange loaf.
Whether you choose a simple coffee or an elaborate dessert spread, this versatile Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake promises to be a delightful center piece for any occasion.
This delightful Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. You might also enjoy a slice alongside our Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread – Irresistibly Moist, Bakery-Style Loaf for a complementary experience.
FAQs
Can I make this Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake the loaf cake up to 3-4 days in advance and store it at room temperature in an airtight container.
The flavors actually meld and deepen over time, making it even more delicious on the second or third day. If glazing, apply the glaze closer to serving time or ensure it’s fully set before storing.
How do I prevent my Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake from sinking in the middle?
Several factors can cause a loaf cake to sink. First, ensure your leavening agents (baking soda and baking powder) are fresh. Second, do not open the oven door during the first 30-40 minutes of baking, as sudden temperature changes can cause the cake to collapse.
Third, avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a weak structure. Finally, make sure the cake is fully baked; an underbaked center will often sink as it cools. Always use a toothpick test to ensure it’s cooked through. Following the baking instructions for this orange chocolate cake carefully helps tremendously.
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
While fresh orange juice is always recommended for the best, brightest flavor in your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake, you can use bottled orange juice in a pinch for the glaze. However, avoid using it in the cake batter itself, as the zest provides the primary orange flavor within the cake, and bottled juice often contains added sugars or preservatives that can alter the cake’s balance. Always use fresh orange zest for the most authentic taste.
What’s the best way to zest an orange?
The best way to zest an orange for this Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is to use a microplane grater. Hold the orange firmly and gently rub it against the grater, rotating the orange as you go. Only remove the bright orange part of the peel, avoiding the white pith underneath, which can be bitter. A fine grater will give you delicate strands of zest that disperse beautifully throughout your chocolate orange cake.
Is this Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is very suitable for freezing. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in a layer of aluminum foil. You can freeze the entire loaf or individual slices.
It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor of this citrus chocolate loaf.
Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the bright zest of orange. This fusion of flavors creates a moist and flavorful cake that is perfect for any occasion, often celebrated in numerous baking communities and featured in various recipe compilations. Learn more about this delectable dessert in the context of baking culture and practices.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
*Please note: This nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients listed and assumes 12 servings per loaf. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands, exact measurements, and optional additions or substitutions.*
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 220mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Total Sugars | 30g |
| Protein | 5g |
Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake
- Total Time: 80 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh orange zest, providing a moist texture and unforgettable aroma perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is versatile enough to pair with various accompaniments.
Ingredients
2 cups All-purpose Flour
¾ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
½ teaspoon Baking Powder
½ teaspoon Salt
1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
1 ½ cups Granulated Sugar
3 Large Eggs, at room temperature
1 cup Full-fat Milk, at room temperature
2 tablespoons Fresh Orange Zest
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
½ cup Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pa
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk
- Fold in the orange zest and chocolate chips
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clea
- Let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool completely
- Prepare the optional glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice, then drizzle over the cooled cake
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 60 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg