If you’re searching for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, look no further than this indulgent Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake. This recipe combines the rich, velvety flavor of cocoa with the bright and zesty notes of fresh oranges, creating a perfectly balanced loaf cake that is moist, decadent, and utterly delicious. Each bite offers a blissful mix of sweetness and citrus, making it an ideal treat for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering.

This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake not only caters to chocolate lovers but also those who appreciate the refreshing scent of citrus. The addition of orange zest and juice infuses the batter with a burst of flavor, while the glossy chocolate ganache on top adds an extra layer of luxury. The recipe is straightforward and approachable, meaning that even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. With its visually appealing presentation and delightful taste, this loaf cake is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake

Flavor Harmony: The blend of rich chocolate and zesty orange creates a uniquely satisfying taste experience.
Moist and Tender: The use of yogurt or sour cream ensures the cake remains tender and moist.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time!
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with ganache, or a simple glaze, making it suitable for various occasions.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing your kitchen and workspace is paramount for successful baking. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out in advance. This will not only streamline the process but also reduce any chances of forgetting a crucial component. For this Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake, ensure you have a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a rubber spatula on hand for proper mixing. Don’t forget to grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan, as it will be essential for shaping your cake.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake. Additionally, greasing and lining your loaf pan with parchment paper will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Consider using a hand mixer for quickly combining the wet ingredients, ensuring you won’t have to put in too much elbow grease. Lastly, having a toothpick or cake tester on standby will help you check if your cake is perfectly baked as you near the end of the baking time.

Ingredients

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
Zest of 2 oranges
⅓ cup fresh orange juice
½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
½ cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped dark chocolate (or chips)
⅓ cup heavy cream (for ganache)
½ cup dark chocolate (for ganache)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, prepare the loaf pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper, ensuring easy release once the cake is baked. This initial step sets you up for success, preventing any sticking issues later on.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined. This careful mixing helps to aerate the dry ingredients and distribute the leavening agents evenly, ensuring a well-risen cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the vegetable oil, yogurt, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract into the egg mixture, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth. The yogurt adds moisture and tang, while the orange juice and zest infuse the batter with a refreshing citrus aroma.

Step 4: Bring it Together

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. Once combined, gently fold in the chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips, allowing their rich flavor to meld into the batter.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped within. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Keep an eye on it near the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.

Step 6: Cool and Ganache

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s steaming but not boiling. Pour this hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for one minute before stirring until it turns smooth and glossy. Drizzle the ganache over the cooled loaf and finish with a sprinkle of orange zest for an extra pop of flavor.

Variations

Protein: Incorporate some chopped walnuts or pecans to add a crunchy texture.
Vegetables: Replace half of the oil with applesauce for a healthier option that still keeps it moist.
Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

For the best flavor, always use freshly grated orange zest.
To keep your loaf tender, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients.
This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop, so consider making it a day in advance!
You can skip the ganache entirely or replace it with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice for a lighter topping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of the loaf with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert experience.

Tips

Use room temperature ingredients where possible for an even and smooth batter.
If the ganache seems too thick, add a touch more warm cream to adjust the consistency.
Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for a few days; however, they can be refrigerated to prolong freshness.
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate; milk chocolate will yield a sweeter cake, whereas dark chocolate adds depth.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per slice
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?

Yes! You can use flax eggs or applesauce as egg replacements if you want a vegan option. Each egg can be substituted with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water.

How can I tell when my cake is done baking?

The best way to check for doneness is inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.

Can I freeze this loaf cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How do I make the ganache smoother?

If your ganache becomes too thick, adding a touch more warm cream while stirring can help achieve a smoother consistency.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful dessert that skillfully marries the richness of chocolate with the vibrant zest of oranges, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea in the afternoon or serving it at a gathering, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, variations, or experiences with this recipe in the comments. Happy baking, and may you find joy in every slice!