Chocolate Orange Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Snack Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; Juice of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore this Chocolate Orange Snack Cake! The combination of rich chocolate with a hint of zesty orange is irresistible. Every bite is a delightful treat that brightens my day. Baking it is straightforward, and the fragrant aroma fills my kitchen, inviting everyone to come and take a look. Whether I'm enjoying it with a cup of coffee or serving it at a gathering, this cake never fails to impress. I can't wait for you to try it and enjoy this perfect blend of flavors as I do!

Created by

Lauren Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:45:36.347Z

Creating this Chocolate Orange Snack Cake was a labor of love for me—I wanted something that would evoke the warmth of a family gathering. The unique partnership of chocolate and orange is not only delicious but also adds a beautiful contrast. I found that adding fresh orange zest really enhances the flavor profile, making it aromatic and refreshing.

The trick to a moist cake is not overmixing the batter; this ensures it remains fluffy. I often double the batch for larger gatherings, as it's always a hit.

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

Choosing the Right Cocoa Powder

The quality of your cocoa powder can significantly affect the flavor of your Chocolate Orange Snack Cake. I recommend using a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a richer chocolate taste. Dutch-processed cocoa is a good choice if you prefer a milder flavor, while natural cocoa will yield a more pronounced chocolate profile. Just keep in mind that the acidity of natural cocoa interacts well with baking soda, which is important for achieving the right rise and texture.

Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, consider trying specialty cocoa powders that are infused with unique flavors or have specific origins. This can elevate your cake even further. Whichever type you choose, make sure to sift the cocoa powder along with the flour to prevent any lumps, creating a smooth batter.

Incorporating Orange Flavor

For the best orange flavor, using fresh zest is key. The zest captures the essential oils of the orange, providing a vibrant aroma that enhances the overall taste of the cake. Be sure to zest the orange lightly to avoid any bitter white pith, which could detract from the cake's sweetness. If you don’t have fresh oranges on hand, a few drops of pure orange extract can also work as a substitute, but always taste as you go since extracts can vary in potency.

As for the juice, fresh-squeezed juice not only adds moisture but also complements the acidity needed to balance the rich chocolate. If you're making the cake ahead of time or prefer to reduce prep time, you can juice the oranges the day before and store the juice in the refrigerator until you're ready to mix your batter.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience.

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
Juice of 1 orange

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow the steps carefully for perfect results.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the milk, oil, eggs, vanilla, orange zest, and orange juice until well blended.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and serve!

Enjoy your delicious cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top!

Pro Tips

Consider adding chocolate ganache or an orange glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further with a simple glaze. Mixing powdered sugar with a bit of additional orange juice creates a glossy, sweet topping that accentuates the orange flavor. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate. Just be sure to serve it warm for that delightful melting contrast.

For a festive touch, consider adding candied orange peel on top as a garnish. Not only does this add a beautiful presentation, but it also enhances the citrus notes in the cake. Another idea is to serve slices with fresh berries, which can add an extra pop of color and a tartness that balances the sweetness.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing the cake is simple. After it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just make sure to slice it first and wrap each piece individually for easier thawing later on.

When you're ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight or let it sit at room temperature for about an hour. Reheating individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds can refresh the cake, making it taste freshly baked again. Note that while freezing may alter the texture slightly, the cake's flavor will remain intact and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend to make this cake gluten-free.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the chocolate orange snack cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can use melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.