Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I sifted through my pantry searching for inspiration, a burst of citrusy aroma beckoned from the orange basket. That’s when I decided to whip up something extraordinary: an Irresistible Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake. Combining luscious chocolate with the zesty brightness of orange, this cake has a moist, tender crumb that’s truly irresistible. Ideal for both casual family feasts and elegant gatherings, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, with its vibrant glaze, every slice feels like a celebration. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your loved ones with this delightful creation? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is this Chocolate-Orange Cake special? Indulgent Flavor: The rich chocolate base perfectly complements the zesty orange, striking a delightful balance that dances on your palate. Effortless Preparation: This cake is quick and simple to make, requiring minimal effort—perfect for busy home cooks! Visually Stunning: With its glossy glaze, this cake is a showstopper, making it ideal for any gathering, from family dinners to celebrations. Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with flavors: swap orange for lemon or add chocolate chips for an extra treat based on your preference. Irresistible Texture: Enjoy a moist and tender crumb that makes each bite melt in your mouth, reminiscent of your favorite gourmet dessert. For more delightful options, check out these Blueberry Cake Donuts or indulge in a slice of Red Velvet Cake. Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake Ingredients • For the best results, gather these essential ingredients below. For the Cake All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a more natural alternative. Cocoa Powder – Imparts rich chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a smoother taste. Baking Powder – Leavening agent for the cake’s rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results. Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; flax eggs can substitute for a vegan option. Whole Milk – Contributes to moisture and texture; use almond milk for a dairy-free alternative. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; replace with vegan butter or coconut oil for a plant-based version. Orange Zest – Enhances flavor with a citrus aroma; fresh zest is preferred for the best taste. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure extract for best quality. For the Glaze Powdered Sugar – Sweetener for the glaze; substitute with erythritol for a low-carb option. Heavy Cream – Helps create a smooth glaze; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version. Enjoy making this delightful Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake that’s sure to impress your family and friends! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9-inch round cake pan and grease it thoroughly with unsalted butter or cooking spray, ensuring that the bottom and sides are coated to prevent sticking. This step is vital for a smooth release after baking the Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 and 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. This mixture creates the foundation for your cake, so ensure there are no lumps before proceeding to the next step. Step 3: Beat Eggs and Sugar In another bowl, add 2 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes pale and fluffy. The fluffy texture is important, as it helps incorporate air, resulting in a light and airy Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake. Step 4: Mix in Wet Ingredients Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 cup of whole milk, the zest of one orange, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the egg-sugar mixture. Gently combine the ingredients on low speed until just blended, taking care not to overmix to keep your cake tender and moist. Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures Now, gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix until you see no more flour streaks, but be careful not to overwork the batter. The key here is to achieve a well-combined batter without losing its airy texture, which will result in a delicious Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake. Step 6: Pour into the Pan Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. This step ensures that your Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake bakes uniformly. Gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to release any air bubbles trapped in the batter for an even rise during baking. Step 7: Bake the Cake Place the cake pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Step 8: Cool and Transfer After the initial cooling, carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake. Then, invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is essential before adding your glaze, as a hot cake could cause it to melt away rather than beautifully coat the dessert. Step 9: Prepare the Glaze In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1/4 cup of heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This glaze will add that irresistible touch to your Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake, making it even more delightful. If you desire a thicker glaze, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. Step 10: Glaze the Cake Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Use a spatula to spread the glaze evenly, ensuring that every inch of the cake is beautifully coated. This will give your Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake a stunning and luscious finish, perfect for impressing guests. Make Ahead Options These Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your dry and wet ingredients, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cake itself can be baked a day ahead and kept covered at room temperature to maintain its moist texture. For best results, wait to glaze the cake until you’re ready to serve; the glaze can also be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated in a sealed container. Just gently rewhisk the glaze before adding it to ensure it’s as luscious as ever! Enjoy the convenience of meal prep while delivering a delightful dessert. What to Serve with Irresistible Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake? Indulging in the decadent flavors of a moist chocolate cake paired with citrusy orange glaze invites a delightful dining experience, creating endless possibilities for perfect pairings. Whipped Cream: A light, fluffy topping that adds a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate-orange cake, enhancing each bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing coolness that balances out the warmth of the cake. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tangy raspberries add vibrant color and a burst of freshness that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce over each slice adds indulgence and enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a dessert lover’s dream. Coffee or Espresso: A freshly brewed cup of coffee elevates the sweet flavors, providing a warm and comforting pairing that’s perfect for a cozy afternoon. Orange Sorbet: For a citrusy twist, serve a scoop of orange sorbet that mirrors the flavor profile of the cake, leaving a refreshing finish on the palate. Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti with hints of almond or hazelnut add a delightful texture contrast and a touch of nutty flavor, perfect for dipping. Moscato Wine: A glass of sweet Moscato beautifully complements the cake’s chocolate and orange notes, making it perfect for celebratory gatherings. Coconut Cream: Silky coconut cream adds a tropical twist, enhancing the richness of the chocolate while keeping it light and airy on the palate. Chocolate-Covered Orange Slices: For a sophisticated touch, serve chocolate-covered orange slices, echoing the cake’s flavor while adding a delightful texture. Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake Variations Feel free to explore and create your own version of this delightful cake with these fun adaptations! Citrus Swap: Replace orange zest with lemon or lime for a fresh, tangy kick. This will bring a new brightness that’s just as enticing. Chocolate Chip Boost: Fold in half a cup of chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Adding these little morsels creates delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite. Spiced Delight: For a warm, aromatic twist, sprinkle in some cinnamon or cardamom. Just a teaspoon adds a cozy feel, perfect for chilly days. Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or almonds into the batter for added crunch. This will not only enhance the texture but also bring a lovely nutty flavor to the cake. Coffee Infusion: Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor. The rich coffee notes will elevate this cake to new heights. Glaze Alternatives: For a twist on the traditional glaze, use a citrus glaze instead—combine powdered sugar with orange juice for a zesty finish. Berry Addition: Mix in fresh raspberries or blueberries to the batter for a fruity touch. These berries bring in a beautiful burst of color and flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. If you crave more delightful desserts, consider trying these scrumptious Zucchini Coffee Cake or this elegant Honey Cheesecake Salted! Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter, giving your cake a lighter texture. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to keep your Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake light and fluffy—overmixing can result in a dense cake. Cool Before Glazing: Always let the cake cool completely before applying the glaze to prevent it from melting and losing its glossy finish. Quality Ingredients Matter: Choose high-quality cocoa powder and vanilla extract for the best flavor experience in your cake. Smooth Glaze: For a satin-smooth glaze, whisk the powdered sugar and cream thoroughly, adjusting the sugar for your desired consistency. Storage Tips for Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake Room Temperature: Keep the Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness. Fridge: If you need to store it longer, place the cake in the refrigerator where it can last for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it well to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor. Reheating: To enjoy a slice later, thaw the cake in the fridge or at room temperature. For a warm treat, gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe oranges for the chocolate-orange glaze cake? Absolutely! For the best flavor in your cake, choose oranges that are firm and heavy for their size, which indicates juiciness. Look for bright, vibrant color without dark spots or blemishes. Freshly zested oranges will add a delightful zing, so avoid any that feel overly soft or have several dark spots. How should I store the leftover chocolate-orange glaze cake? You can keep your delectable cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, refrigerate it where it can stay fresh for about 5 days. Just remember to wrap it properly to prevent it from drying out! Can I freeze the chocolate-orange glaze cake, and how? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, you can enjoy your cake for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to savor it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. If you want a warm treat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Why did my chocolate-orange glaze cake sink in the middle? Very common! If your cake sinks, it might be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure you’re using fresh baking powder and bake the cake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allowing the cake to cool gradually in the pan can help too, as temperature shocks can cause it to collapse. What dietary adjustments can I make for the chocolate-orange glaze cake? No problem! To cater to dietary needs, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs for a vegan option, and use almond milk instead of whole milk for dairy-free devotees. For gluten-free eaters, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. The cake should still come out delicious and moist! How long does the glaze last if I have leftovers? The glaze is best used immediately but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it thickens too much, just whisk in a teaspoon of milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency before pouring it over your cake again. Decadent Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake to Sweeten Your Day No ratings yet This Chocolate-Orange Glaze Cake combines luscious chocolate with zesty orange, creating a moist and tender dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1.75 cups All-Purpose Flour substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option0.75 cups Granulated Sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar for a more natural alternative0.75 cups Cocoa Powder Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a smoother taste2 teaspoons Baking Powder ensure it's fresh for the best results2 large Eggs flax eggs can substitute for a vegan option1 cup Whole Milk use almond milk for a dairy-free alternative0.5 cups Unsalted Butter replace with vegan butter or coconut oil for a plant-based version1 tablespoon Orange Zest fresh zest is preferred for the best taste1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract opt for pure extract for best qualityFor the Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar substitute with erythritol for a low-carb option0.25 cups Heavy Cream coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free version Equipment 9-inch round cake panMixing bowlsElectric MixerwhiskSpatula Method Preparation and BakingPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with unsalted butter or cooking spray.In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well blended.In another bowl, add eggs and granulated sugar, and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy.Pour in melted unsalted butter, whole milk, orange zest, and vanilla extract into the egg-sugar mixture. Combine gently on low speed.Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until no flour streaks remain.Pour cake batter into the prepared pan and tap to release air bubbles.Bake for about 30 minutes, then check for doneness with a toothpick.Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.GlazingIn a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and heavy cream until smooth.Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top and spread evenly for a stunning finish. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesExpert tips for best results include using room temperature eggs, avoiding overmixing, and allowing the cake to cool completely before glazing. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
