Chocolate Orange Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Snack Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup milk; Zest of 1 large orange; Juice of 1 large orange; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 1 tablespoon milk; Zest of 1/2 orange

Highlighted under: Oven Cooking

I absolutely love this Chocolate Orange Snack Cake! The vibrant citrusy flavor of the orange zest beautifully complements the rich chocolate base, creating a delightful treat that’s both decadent and refreshing. When I first made this cake, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. It’s perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or as a sweet addition to any gathering. I can confidently say this recipe will become a household favorite, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:09:36.570Z

When I first attempted to combine chocolate and orange flavors, I was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant fusion that emerged. I experimented with various ratios of cocoa to zest until I struck the perfect balance, resulting in a cake that is both moist and flavorful. One key tip I discovered was to let the cake cool completely before glazing, as this allows the glaze to set beautifully, providing a glossy finish that enhances its visual appeal.

This Chocolate Orange Snack Cake has since become my go-to dessert for gatherings. The combination of rich chocolate and bright orange isn’t just delicious; it also creates an eye-catching centerpiece for any dessert table. Whether you're serving it at a special occasion or just enjoying a slice with your coffee, it never fails to impress my guests!

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

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The marriage of rich chocolate and bright orange zest creates a delightful flavor profile that elevates this cake above ordinary chocolate snacks. The chocolate adds depth, while the citrus brings a refreshing note that cuts through the sweetness. The key is to use fresh orange zest and juice; the natural oils in fresh zest provide a stronger, more vibrant flavor than any bottled extract could. I recommend grating the orange zest with a microplane for a fine consistency that disperses evenly throughout the batter.

When preparing this cake, it's crucial to ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this helps to create a fluffy texture when creamed. If you're in a hurry, you can cut the butter into smaller chunks and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave them on low power for a few seconds, checking frequently. Whipping air into the butter will make your cake light and airy, enhancing that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Perfecting the Texture

This cake requires a delicate balance between moisture and structure, which comes from the right ratio of wet to dry ingredients. The combination of eggs and milk helps achieve a tender crumb, while the all-purpose flour provides stability. Make sure to measure your flour accurately—too much can lead to a dense cake. I recommend spooning the flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off to avoid compacting it, which can happen with scooping directly from the container.

Another critical aspect is not to overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients come together. Mixing just until combined ensures the gluten in the flour does not overdevelop, which can result in a tougher texture. Look for a few flour streaks when mixing; they will incorporate during baking. Remember, a little lumps in the batter are perfectly fine—after all, we want a tender cake, not a chewy one.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious Chocolate Orange Snack Cake!

For the Cake

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup milk
Zest of 1 large orange
Juice of 1 large orange

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon milk
Zest of 1/2 orange

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these instructions to create the perfect Chocolate Orange Snack Cake!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour 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 until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and then add the eggs, vanilla extract, milk, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until smooth.

Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, mix together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and milk in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top and sprinkle with the orange zest.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and orange!

Your Chocolate Orange Snack Cake is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Orange Snack Cake can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance the flavors. A sprinkle of additional orange zest or a few toasted nuts on top can add extra texture and visual appeal, making it a striking centerpiece for any gathering.

For a more festive touch, try pairing the cake with a citrus-infused tea or a rich coffee. The deep flavors of the drink will complement the chocolate, while the citrus notes will harmonize with the orange elements of the cake. Be sure to serve it in generous squares alongside your chosen beverage for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make this cake ahead of time, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it well in plastic wrap and freezing it for up to a month. To enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature before glazing and serving. This also makes it perfect for prepping desserts for events or busy weeks ahead.

When ready to glaze, ensure that the cake has cooled completely to avoid melting the glaze. If your glaze seems too thick, add a splash of orange juice or milk until you reach a drizzling consistency. If it’s too runny, sprinkle in a bit more powdered sugar. Ensuring the right consistency will not only look more appealing but will also enhance the overall taste experience of this delicious cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange?

Yes, lemons or limes can be used, but adjust the sugar according to the tartness of the fruit.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

→ What can I pair with this cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!