Tried this for the first time and it turned out fantastic! Going to be on people's plates during Christmas for sure!

Name: Tried this for the first time and it turned out fantastic! Going to be on people's plates during Christmas for sure!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Zest of 1 orange; 2 tbsp orange juice

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2025-12-19T16:10:57.865Z

This recipe was a pleasant surprise on my first try, and I can't wait to share it with everyone during the holiday season. The flavors are delightful!

        Why You Will 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 Holiday Treat

This chocolate cake with orange frosting is a delightful combination that brings joy to any festive gathering. The rich chocolate flavor harmonizes beautifully with the bright, citrusy notes of orange, making it a standout dessert for Christmas celebrations. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or looking for a sweet treat to share with loved ones, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Not only does this cake taste incredible, but it also looks stunning. The vibrant orange frosting contrasts beautifully against the dark chocolate cake, creating an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert spread. It’s a wonderful way to add a festive touch to your holiday table and will leave your guests eagerly anticipating a slice.

Easy to Make and Impressively Delicious

Don’t be intimidated by the thought of baking a cake from scratch; this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you'll have a homemade cake that tastes like it came from a professional bakery. The creamy orange frosting complements the moist chocolate cake, making each bite a delightful experience.

This cake is not only perfect for Christmas but can also be enjoyed for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion. Its versatility means you can easily adapt the flavors or decorations based on the theme of your celebration, ensuring that it fits perfectly into any festive atmosphere.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing this cake is a breeze. Keep it covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate it for a longer shelf life. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full, rich flavors.

For an extra touch of elegance, consider serving slices of this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also garnish each plate with fresh orange slices or chocolate shavings to enhance the presentation, making it a truly special dessert experience.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

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

For the Orange Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
Zest of 1 orange
2 tbsp orange juice

Mix well and ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until fluffy and smooth.

Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the orange frosting evenly on top. Decorate with additional orange zest if desired.

Slice and serve to your guests. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start mixing. This allows for better incorporation of the ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter and a more tender cake. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser texture.

When making the frosting, feel free to adjust the amount of orange zest and juice to suit your taste. Adding more zest can intensify the orange flavor, while a little less can tone it down. Always taste your frosting as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions

This chocolate cake with orange frosting pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A rich cup of coffee or a glass of milk complements the chocolate, while a fruity tea can enhance the citrus notes in the frosting. For a more festive option, consider serving it with a glass of sparkling cider or champagne during holiday gatherings.

If you want to elevate the experience further, try serving this cake alongside a fruit salad or a platter of seasonal fruits. The freshness of the fruit will balance the richness of the cake, creating a harmonious dessert experience that everyone will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can use cream cheese frosting or any other flavor you prefer.

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.