Description
Fluffy Chocolate Cake with a Twist
Ingredients:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup hot water
1 tsp orange zest
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square cake pan.
Combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder.
Whisk sugar, eggs, orange juice, oil, and zest. Gradually add dry ingredients.
Stir in hot water until smooth. Bake for 30-35 minutes.
Frost with orange-infused chocolate frosting.
Citrus + chocolate = perfection!
Tag someone who’d love this twist!
#ChocolateOrangeCake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cake every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9-inch square pan. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder. This aerates the dry ingredients, preventing lumps. In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk the sugar, eggs, orange juice, oil, and orange zest for two full minutes until slightly frothy. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula just until combined. The batter will be thick. Now, slowly pour in the hot water, stirring until the batter becomes smooth and liquid. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and immediately place it in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake pairs beautifully with various toppings. For the classic finish, slather it with the suggested orange-infused chocolate frosting. For a lighter option, dust with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or orange mascarpone. A scoop of vanilla bean or orange sorbet alongside a warm slice makes for an elegant dessert. For a brunch treat, serve slightly warm with fresh berries and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
How-to Summary
To make Fluffy Chocolate Orange Cake: Sift dry ingredients. Whisk wet ingredients (except water) until frothy. Combine wet and dry mixes. Stir in hot water for a smooth batter. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Cool and frost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different citrus juice? Yes, lemon or tangerine juice can substitute for orange juice, but adjust the zest accordingly for the best flavor harmony.
Why add hot water? The hot water blooms the cocoa powder, intensifying the chocolate flavor, and helps create a tender, moist crumb by thinning the batter.
Can I make this into cupcakes? Absolutely. Fill lined cupcake tins 2/3 full and bake for 18-22 minutes. This recipe yields about 24 cupcakes.
How should I store the cake? Store frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Unfrosted cake can be tightly wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months.
My cake didn’t rise much. What happened? This is likely due to expired or inactive baking soda/powder. Always check the freshness of your leavening agents for proper lift.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough, dense cake.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure eggs and orange juice are at room temperature to emulsify properly with the oil for a uniform texture.
- Skipping the sifting: Sifting cocoa and flour is crucial to avoid dry, clumpy pockets in your finished cake.
- Opening the oven door early: Resist peeking before the 30-minute mark. A sudden drop in temperature can cause the cake to fall.
Conclusion
This Fluffy Chocolate Orange Cake is a stunning example of how bold citrus can elevate rich chocolate to new heights. The simple addition of orange juice and zest creates a sophisticated, moist, and incredibly flavorful dessert that is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a show-stopping bake perfect for any occasion. The unique twist is sure to become a requested favorite.
