Chocolate Orange Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Snack Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup buttermilk; Zest of 1 orange; 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

When I first experimented with the combination of chocolate and orange, I was mesmerized by how well they complement each other. This Chocolate Orange Snack Cake has become a beloved treat in my home. Its rich chocolate flavor combined with the bright zest of orange creates a delightful balance that is simply irresistible. As I whip up this cake, the vibrant aroma filling the kitchen reminds me of special moments shared over dessert. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to please everyone.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:16:37.828Z

I stumbled upon the idea of a Chocolate Orange Snack Cake during a weekend baking spree. As I combined my ingredients, I realized that the citrus note from the orange zest elevated the cake to a whole new level. Adding a touch of freshly squeezed orange juice not only enhances the flavor but also moistens the cake beautifully. It's amazing how simple ingredients can come together to create something so delightful.

Every time I serve this cake, it's accompanied by a round of oohs and aahs. The secret is in letting the flavors meld as it cools before digging in, which allows the chocolate to deepen. I love adding a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Cake
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Moist and tender crumb that keeps you coming back for more
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients plays a vital role in achieving the best flavor for your Chocolate Orange Snack Cake. The zest of the orange should be freshly grated to ensure its essential oils are intact, providing vibrant flavor and aroma. Freshly squeezed orange juice is also crucial; it has a bright acidity that jarred varieties simply can't replicate. I recommend zesting the orange before juicing it to make the process easier and maximize the zest's potency in the batter.

For the cocoa powder, choose a high-quality, unsweetened type to enhance the rich chocolate flavor. Different brands can vary in intensity, so if you have a favorite, stick with it! Remember, the flour should be properly measured—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly. This prevents excess flour, which could lead to a dense cake rather than the moist crumb you're aiming for.

Techniques for the Best Texture

Building the right texture in your cake relies heavily on how you mix your ingredients. It's crucial to not overmix the batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—this helps achieve a light, tender crumb. Overmixing develops gluten, which could lead to a tough cake. I usually stop mixing as soon as I no longer see dry flour—it should have small lumps but be cohesive.

When baking, placement in the oven matters too. Position the cake pan in the center of the oven for even heat distribution. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly while the center remains undercooked, you can tent the cake with aluminum foil to prevent further browning. Keep an eye on the cake as it approaches the 30-minute mark; every oven is different, and a toothpick should come out clean from the center for optimal doneness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chocolate Orange Snack Cake:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup buttermilk
Zest of 1 orange
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

Once you have these ingredients ready, we can move on to the steps to make this delicious cake!

Instructions

Let's go through the steps to bake your Chocolate Orange Snack Cake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, buttermilk, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Your cake is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider drizzling a simple chocolate ganache or a light orange glaze over the top before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep your Chocolate Orange Snack Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you can't finish the cake within that time, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can last in the freezer for up to three months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best results, and consider warming individual slices in the microwave briefly for that just-baked taste.

If you want to make the cake ahead of time for an event, it actually improves in flavor as it rests. Bake it a day or two ahead and let it sit at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld. You can also frost it or add a glaze right before serving for a fresh touch. A simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice would complement the flavors beautifully!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This snack cake is delightful on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate it further. Consider serving slices alongside fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in flavors. For added texture and decoration, sprinkle the top with chopped, toasted nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. Pairing it with a citrus-infused tea or coffee makes for a perfect afternoon indulgence.

For variations, you can experiment with different citrus if orange isn't your favorite. Grapefruit or tangerine zest and juice can offer a unique twist. Additionally, try incorporating chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for bursts of melty chocolate. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you introduce extra ingredients, as they might affect the cake's structure and baking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the buttermilk?

Yes, you can use regular milk or a non-dairy milk with a teaspoon of vinegar added to it.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it wrapped in plastic wrap until ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of orange juice?

You can substitute the orange juice with water, but the flavor will be less vibrant.