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: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp orange zest; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Orange food coloring (optional)

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:42:30.009Z

This recipe is perfect for festive gatherings and will surely impress your guests with its delightful flavors and presentation.

        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

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

This chocolate cake with orange frosting is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to any festive gathering. The rich chocolate base harmonizes beautifully with the zesty orange frosting, making it a delightful treat that everyone will love. Its vibrant flavors and stunning appearance will surely impress your guests and become a staple on your holiday dessert table.

As you prepare this cake, the aroma of cocoa mingled with citrus zest fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that's perfect for the holiday season. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also allows you to infuse your personal touch, whether through decoration or by adding your favorite flavors. This cake will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your chocolate cake turns out perfectly moist and fluffy, measure your ingredients accurately. Sift the dry ingredients together to avoid any lumps, and make sure to mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, which we want to avoid. Additionally, using room temperature eggs and milk will enhance the overall texture.

When baking, always check your oven temperature with a reliable thermometer. Oven temperatures can vary, and baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the desired rise and texture. Also, instead of just greasing the pans, consider lining them with parchment paper for easy removal, ensuring your cake layers retain their beautiful shape.

Decorating Your Cake

Once you've assembled your cake, the decorating options are endless. You could add candied orange slices on top for an elegant touch, or sprinkle cocoa powder for a classic finish. For a festive look, consider using edible glitter or sprinkles. These details not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a fun element to your dessert.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can even incorporate different textures. For example, adding a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the orange frosting will create a delightful surprise with every slice. Remember, the key to a beautiful cake is not just in the flavors but also in the presentation. Let your creativity shine as you decorate your holiday masterpiece!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water

For the Orange Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp orange zest
1 tsp vanilla extract
Orange food coloring (optional)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before baking.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla.

Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream. Beat until fluffy. Mix in orange zest and vanilla, adding food coloring if desired.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cooled, spread frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.

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

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers after your holiday celebrations, storing your chocolate orange cake is simple. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and freshness. Stored properly, the cake can last up to five days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic and aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. You'll be able to savor the flavors even after the holiday festivities have ended!

Variations to Explore

While this chocolate cake with orange frosting is a winning combination, feel free to experiment with other flavors! Consider adding a hint of espresso powder to the cake batter for a mocha twist, or substitute the orange zest with lemon or lime for a refreshing citrus change. Each variation can bring a new level of excitement to your dessert.

You can also explore different types of frostings. A cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with chocolate and adds a tangy richness that complements the sweetness. Additionally, think about incorporating layers of fruit, like raspberries or strawberries, for a burst of flavor that elevates this delightful dessert even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost it on the day of serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

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

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.