why make this recipe
Chocolate Orange Traybake is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with the zesty goodness of orange. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or simply a cozy evening at home. The bright and refreshing notes of orange cut through the sweetness of the chocolate, making each bite enjoyable. Plus, it’s easy to make, so even beginners can impress their friends and family with this delicious dessert.
how to make Chocolate Orange Traybake
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp orange zest (from 1 large orange)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
For the icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1-2 tbsp orange juice (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 tsp orange zest (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking tray with parchment paper to make it easy to remove the cake later.
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and orange zest until well combined.
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Mix the wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, milk, and orange juice. Mix until everything is smooth.
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Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Prepare the icing: While the cake is baking, mix the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, melted butter, and orange juice in a bowl. Adjust the orange juice as needed to get the right consistency for spreading.
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Ice the cake: Once the cake is cool, spread the icing over the top using a spatula.
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Serve: Cut the cake into squares and serve it fresh.
how to serve Chocolate Orange Traybake
Chocolate Orange Traybake is best served at room temperature. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. For extra flair, add some fresh orange slices or berries as a garnish.
how to store Chocolate Orange Traybake
To store your leftover traybake, place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
tips to make Chocolate Orange Traybake
- Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor. If you can, buy organic oranges to avoid pesticide residue.
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
- Do not overbake the cake; it should be moist and soft in the center.
- Feel free to decorate with chocolate shavings or an extra sprinkle of orange zest for a nice touch.
variation
You can switch up the flavors by adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter. For a different twist, consider using lemon or lime juice instead of orange for a citrusy cake.
FAQs
Q: Can I use cocoa powder that is not Dutch processed?
A: Yes, you can use any unsweetened cocoa powder you have on hand. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Q: How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
A: You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready!
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly to keep it fresh until you are ready to ice and serve it.
Chocolate Orange Traybake
A delightful treat combining rich chocolate flavor with zesty orange.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp orange zest (from 1 large orange)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1–2 tbsp orange juice (for icing)
- 1 tsp orange zest (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking tray by greasing and lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and orange zest.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, milk, and orange juice, mixing until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, mix powdered sugar, cocoa powder, melted butter, and orange juice to create the icing.
- Once the cake is cool, spread the icing over the top.
- Cut the cake into squares and serve at room temperature.
Notes
Serve with vanilla ice cream and garnish with fresh orange slices or berries. Store in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg