Tried this for the first time and it turned out fantastic! Going to be on people's plates during Christmas for sure!

Name: Tried this for the first time and it turned out fantastic! Going to be on people's plates during Christmas for sure!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¼ cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:30:55.817Z

This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite. The combination of flavors and textures brings joy to the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Festive Treat for All Occasions

This chocolate cake, enriched with a hint of orange zest, is perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations. Its rich and moist texture invites guests to savor each bite, making it a delightful addition to any dessert table. Whether you're hosting a Christmas party or a birthday celebration, this cake will impress everyone with its delightful flavor and elegant appearance.

The combination of chocolate and orange is timeless, and this recipe elevates it to new heights. The zest from fresh oranges adds a refreshing brightness, balancing the deep, rich notes of cocoa. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a conversation starter, inviting compliments and requests for the recipe.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To achieve the best results, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This ensures a smooth batter and an even rise while baking. Additionally, measuring your ingredients accurately is crucial for a consistent texture. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour and sugar.

Don't skip the step of adding boiling water to the batter. It may seem unconventional, but it helps to create a moist cake by activating the cocoa powder and providing steam during baking. This little trick results in a cake that is not only moist but incredibly flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 ½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before baking for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla, then mix until smooth. Carefully stir in boiling water.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Check with a toothpick for doneness.

Make the Frosting

Beat the softened butter in a bowl. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa, alternating with milk. Mix until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting evenly on top. Decorate as desired.

Let the cake sit for a while before serving to enhance the flavors.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To store your chocolate-orange cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

To elevate your serving presentation, consider garnishing the cake with candied orange peel or a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Variations to Try

While this chocolate cake is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. For a richer flavor, incorporate dark chocolate chips into the batter or swap out the orange zest for a different citrus, like lemon or lime, for a tangy twist.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. This cake is versatile enough to accommodate many dietary preferences while still delivering on taste and satisfaction.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

→ How long can I store the cake?

The cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly and it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute.