Chocolate Orange Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Snack Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange; 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tbsp milk; 1 tsp orange zest

Highlighted under: From Batter to Bliss

I absolutely love how this Chocolate Orange Snack Cake captures the essence of both rich chocolate and refreshing citrus. The combination is decadent yet light, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. From gathering the ingredients to the final baking moment, every step brings joy and excitement. This cake has become a favorite in my home, where we enjoy it during cozy evenings or when friends drop by. Join me in creating this delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:33:35.872Z

When I first decided to bake a Chocolate Orange Snack Cake, I wanted to create something that blended the deep flavors of chocolate with the zesty brightness of orange. I experimented with different ratios until I found the perfect balance, where neither flavor overshadowed the other.

The trick I discovered was to use fresh orange zest in the batter, which adds a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall taste. Each bite offers a delightful contrast, making it a memorable dessert that I can't resist!

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

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The foundation of the Chocolate Orange Snack Cake lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients. The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder creates a rich, velvety base that’s crucial for achieving the cake’s decadent texture. I recommend using high-quality cocoa powder, as it significantly influences the chocolate flavor. Additionally, the incorporation of both granulated sugar and brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to a moister cake due to the molasses content in brown sugar.

Don't underestimate the role of buttermilk in this recipe. It interacts with the baking soda and baking powder, creating a light, airy crumb. If you find yourself without buttermilk, a quick substitute can be made by combining one cup of milk with a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for about five minutes before using it in the batter.

Tips for a Perfect Bake

To ensure your cake bakes evenly, it’s crucial to preheat your oven to the right temperature—350°F (175°C)—and allow it to fully reach this temperature before placing the cake inside. A hot oven helps the batter rise properly, while uneven baking can lead to a dense texture. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking; you’re looking for the sides to slightly pull away from the pan and for cracks to appear on the top, indicating it’s done.

If you’re testing for doneness with a toothpick, insert it into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. If your cake is browning too quickly, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil after the first 20 minutes to prevent burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.

Frosting Tips and Variations

When preparing the frosting, make sure the butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a creamy, smooth consistency. If you find that your frosting is too thick, gradually add a tablespoon of milk until you reach the desired spreadable texture. Conversely, if it’s too thin, a little more powdered sugar can thicken it up without affecting the flavor.

Feel free to customize the frosting: for a burst of extra orange flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or a bit more zest. Alternatively, you could mix in a splash of espresso or coffee to the frosting for an intriguing depth of flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. Consider garnishing the frosted cake with orange slices or chocolate shavings for added visual appeal.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp orange zest

Preparation Steps

Directions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, blend the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth.

Combine and Bake

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

Prepare the Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and orange zest until creamy and smooth.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding chocolate shavings or candied orange peel on top for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Orange Snack Cake can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. For a special gathering, consider slicing the cake into smaller squares and serving them alongside a cup of coffee or hot tea, allowing guests to savor its rich flavors.

For a festive presentation, dust the top of the frosted cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder before serving. You might also drizzle some melted chocolate over the frosting for an extra touch of decadence. When entertaining, arranging cake slices on a decorative platter adds visual appeal and invites guests to indulge in this delightful treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the cake in advance, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

When making ahead for an event, consider baking the cake the day before. This can allow the flavors to meld and enhance the overall taste. Just ensure you cool the cake completely before wrapping it for storage to maintain its moisture and texture, and frost it just before serving to keep the frosting fresh and vibrant.

Customization Options

This recipe is quite adaptable! If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute in place of half of the granulated sugar—just be sure to adjust the moisture if needed, as some substitutes can alter texture. If you prefer a lighter cake, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to create a gluten-free version while adding unique flavors.

For a more intense chocolate experience, you might fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the batter before baking. This will introduce pockets of melted chocolate that create a satisfying texture contrast, enhancing each bite. Alternatively, if you're a fan of nuts, walnuts or pecans can be added for additional crunch and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, using melted dark chocolate can enhance the richness of the cake; just adjust the sugar as needed.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake it a day in advance and frost it just before serving for the best taste.

→ Is it possible to use gluten-free flour?

Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can be substituted for the regular flour in this recipe.