If you are craving a rich holiday treat that perfectly balances zesty brightness with indulgent chocolate, this Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a moist, luscious cake bursting with the warm aromas of cinnamon and freshly grated orange zest, layered with a silky dark chocolate ganache that dazzles every bite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or want a special dessert for cozy winter evenings, this cake feels like a heartfelt gift from your kitchen, capturing the essence of festive joy in each slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this cake lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and festive appearance that makes this cake so unforgettable.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake structure and a tender crumb.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep, rich chocolate flavor without overpowering the orange notes.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay light during baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidity from the orange juice for perfect leavening.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warm spice, making the cake feel especially festive.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moistness to the cake.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed: Brings a caramel-like depth and beautiful tenderness.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients together and add silkiness to the batter.
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Offers bright citrus zing and natural moisture.
- 2 tablespoons orange zest: Intensifies orange flavor with aromatic oils from the peel.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with subtle sweetness and warmth.
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips: Melt into pockets of gooey richness throughout the cake.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and earthiness, complementing the chocolate.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For making the creamy, luxurious dark chocolate ganache.
- 6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped: The star ingredient of the ganache topping that beautifully coats the cake.
How to Make Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and line an 8-inch round or square cake pan with parchment paper to ensure your cake releases easily and bakes evenly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Combining these elements upfront guarantees your leavening and spices are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and packed dark brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for creating a tender texture filled with the rich, caramel notes from the sugar.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and aerated. Then stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice, zesty orange peel, and fragrant vanilla extract, bringing bright, refreshing notes that cut through the chocolate richness.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring carefully until just combined to prevent overmixing. Afterward, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and optional nuts for added texture and bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface for an even bake. Pop it into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Make and Apply The Ganache
Heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a few minutes, then whisk until silky smooth. Spread the ganache generously over the cooled cake and let it set—this luscious topping creates a glossy, decadent finish that brings the whole cake together.
How to Serve Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely grated orange zest over the ganache adds a festive pop of color and a hint of fresh citrus aroma. Toasted nuts can also be scattered on top for extra crunch and inviting texture. For a final flourish, a few edible gold leaf touches make this cake party-ready.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream lightly dusted with cinnamon or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the rich chocolate. A warm cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee also complements the cake’s luxurious flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings, serve the cake on a rustic wooden board decorated with fresh orange slices and holly sprigs for a charming, festive display. Individual slices can be topped with chocolate shavings and a mint leaf for an elegant finish. Wrapping leftover slices in parchment and tying with ribbon makes a thoughtful edible gift too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover slices covered at room temperature for up to two days without losing that wonderful moist texture. For longer storage, place the cake in an airtight container to maintain freshness and protect the delicate ganache topping.
Freezing
This cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. Ganache may firm a bit but will still taste fantastic.
Reheating
For a cozy treat, reheat individual slices briefly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) to soften the ganache slightly and bring out the cake’s warm, chocolatey aroma.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give the cake a sweeter, creamier taste. Just remember that dark chocolate balances the orange beautifully with its slight bitterness, so the flavor will change accordingly.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice and zest?
Fresh orange juice and zest are best for a vibrant and authentic citrus flavor. Bottled juice lacks the brightness and fresh oils found in fresh zest, so if possible, always opt for fresh ingredients.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that suits baking, you can adapt the recipe. Just keep in mind texture might vary slightly depending on the flour blend used.
What’s the best way to get smooth ganache?
Make sure your cream is hot but not boiling when poured over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes before stirring gently. Avoid stirring too aggressively to keep it silky and smooth.
Can I omit the nuts?
Yes! Nuts are optional and can be left out if you prefer a nut-free version or want a softer bite. The cake is delicious on its own, and the chocolate chips add plenty of texture.
Final Thoughts
This Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe is truly a holiday gem that will make your celebrations memorable. With its perfect balance of zesty citrus and decadent chocolate, it’s the kind of cake you’ll want to bake again and again—not just at Christmas but whenever you need a little seasonal cheer. So don’t hesitate, gather your ingredients, and share the joy with loved ones through the warmth of this spectacular cake!
Print
Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake combines rich dark chocolate and zesty orange flavors to create a moist, indulgent dessert perfect for holiday celebrations. With a luscious dark chocolate ganache topping and optional crunchy nuts, this British-inspired cake is sure to impress family and friends during the festive season.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Ganache
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round or square cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and dark brown sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Liquid Flavors: Stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped walnuts or pecans if using, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack before removing it, to prevent it from breaking apart.
- Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil). Remove from heat and pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it stand for 2 minutes, then stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Apply Ganache: Spread the ganache evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula. Allow the ganache to set at room temperature before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a more intense orange flavor, brush the cooled cake lightly with warm orange juice before spreading the ganache.
- This cake can be made a day ahead; cover it and store at room temperature to let all the flavors meld beautifully.
