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 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon orange juice; 1 teaspoon orange zest

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

When I first thought about combining chocolate and orange, I was skeptical, but I decided to give it a try. This Chocolate Orange Snack Cake has become one of my favorite treats! The rich chocolate flavor paired with the citrusy brightness of orange zest is a game changer. It's incredibly easy to throw together and perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or an impressive dessert for guests. I love how moist the cake stays for days, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or unexpected gatherings.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:24:39.705Z

Making this Chocolate Orange Snack Cake was an adventure that truly delighted my taste buds! I recall the moment I mixed the orange zest with the cocoa powder, and the aroma that filled my kitchen was simply divine. This method works beautifully because the zest enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the chocolate.

While baking, I discovered that using buttermilk not only keeps the cake moist but adds a tangy twist that complements the sweetness perfectly. Trust me, don’t skip this ingredient! It’s what makes this cake irresistibly soft and fluffy.

Why You'll Love This Cake
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Understanding Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder creates the foundation of this cake's structure and texture. Be sure to sift these dry ingredients together to avoid clumps, which can disrupt the cake's airy quality. The rich flavor of unsweetened cocoa is essential for that deep chocolate taste, while the granulated sugar not only sweetens but also aids in achieving that moist crumb texture that keeps the cake delicious for days.

Buttermilk plays a crucial role in this recipe by adding moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can easily substitute it by mixing one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for about 10 minutes to curdle. This simple hack provides a similar acidity that helps activate the baking soda, giving the cake its lift.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, it's important to mix them until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the desired light and fluffy texture. Look for a few visible flour streaks when you stop mixing, as these will incorporate during baking without compromising the cake's lift.

Baking at 350°F (175°C) is ideal for this cake, allowing the outer edges to set while keeping the center moist. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Remember that every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake around the 25-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overbake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful chocolate orange experience!

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting (optional)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest

With all your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to enjoying this delicious cake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Chocolate Orange Snack Cake to perfection!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the orange zest and mix well.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine and Bake

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Frosting (Optional)

While the cake cools, make the frosting by beating the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, then mix in the heavy cream, orange juice, and zest until smooth.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with the prepared frosting if desired. Slice and serve!

Enjoy your moist and flavorful Chocolate Orange Snack Cake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding chopped dark chocolate or orange slices on top of the frosting. Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.

Storage and Meal Prep

After baking, allow the Chocolate Orange Snack Cake to cool completely before storing. This helps retain its moisture and prevents sogginess. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze individual slices, which is perfect for quick snacks later; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

If you're considering making the cake ahead of time, it’s a great idea to bake and freeze it without frosting. The unfrosted cake can be wrapped and stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to serve it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then frost it with the optional chocolate orange frosting before indulging. This way, you’ll have a fresh treat ready for unexpected guests.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For those looking to add a little twist, consider incorporating chocolate chips or orange-flavored dried fruit into the batter for an added texture and flavor explosion. You could also swap out the vegetable oil for melted coconut oil; it provides a subtle coconut hint that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and orange. Additionally, if you're interested in a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer and use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk.

When serving, this cake can stand alone or be dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy flavors provide a lovely contrast to the cake's rich chocolate and zesty orange notes. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh orange slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of citrus aroma.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute for buttermilk?

Yes! You can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.

→ How can I store the cake?

The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add a splash of coffee to the batter for a more complex flavor profile, as it pairs wonderfully with chocolate.