Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice; 1 teaspoon orange zest

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange in this moist loaf cake.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:38:30.699Z

This Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a family favorite, combining the deep flavors of chocolate with the refreshing zest of orange. It's perfect for any occasion!

        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 Dessert for Any Occasion

Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake is a versatile dessert that fits perfectly into any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a cozy evening at home, this cake adds a touch of elegance and joy. Its unique blend of rich chocolate and refreshing orange zest elevates it above ordinary cakes, making it a standout choice for gatherings with family and friends.

Not only does this loaf cake make a fantastic centerpiece for your dessert table, but it also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. The moist texture and decadent flavors are sure to impress your guests, leaving them craving more. Plus, it's a delightful treat for those who appreciate the classic combination of chocolate and citrus.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake, it's essential to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for premium cocoa powder and fresh oranges for zest and juice to enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened at room temperature to ensure a smooth and airy batter when creamed with sugar.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter. Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we want to avoid. Lastly, remember to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when fully baked.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake has cooled and been glazed, you might wonder how to store it. To keep it fresh, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This cake also freezes beautifully, so you can make it in advance and enjoy it later.

For serving, slice the loaf into thick pieces and consider garnishing with additional orange zest or even chocolate shavings for an extra touch. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the indulgence. The possibilities are endless with this delightful cake!

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest

Gather all the ingredients before starting for a smooth baking process.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Milk

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the milk, orange juice, and orange zest.

Combine Mixtures

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake cools, mix powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest for the glaze.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

One slice of Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake (approximately 1/12 of the cake) contains around 250 calories, offering a satisfying treat without feeling overly indulgent. This cake provides a delightful balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a well-rounded dessert option. The inclusion of orange juice and zest adds a boost of vitamin C, contributing to its overall nutritional value.

While this cake is a sweet indulgence, moderation is key. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet and savor the rich flavors it offers. If you're looking to lighten it up, consider using a sugar substitute or whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that this may alter the texture and taste slightly.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake experience! For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding chocolate chips or walnuts to the batter for added texture. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits; lemon or grapefruit can provide a refreshing alternative to orange, creating a unique flavor profile.

If you're looking for a more decadent treat, try incorporating a layer of orange-flavored cream cheese frosting on top of the glaze. This adds an extra layer of creaminess that complements the cake beautifully. Remember, the best part of baking is experimenting, so don't hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can melt dark chocolate and use it in place of cocoa powder for a richer flavor.

→ How should I store the loaf cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unglazed cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.