There’s something truly enchanting about indulging in a slice of cake that dances between rich dark chocolate and the bright zing of blood orange. Picture this: the moment you slice through the cake, revealing rich, fudgy layers accented with a wave of vibrant buttercream that adds a pop of color and citrusy flair. That’s exactly what I experienced the first time I made this Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake.
I crave desserts that are not just sweet but tell a story, and this cake does just that. With every bite, the deep chocolate flavor mingles beautifully with the refreshing notes of blood orange, creating an unforgettable experience that’s both decadent and refreshing. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply want a special treat for yourself after a long day, this recipe is your answer. Plus, the easy-to-follow steps make it a breeze to create, even for those of us who don’t consider ourselves master bakers. Let’s dive into the recipe that transforms everyday moments into something sweetly memorable!
Why is Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake special?
Indulge in a dessert that’s truly unique!
- Eye-catching beauty with vibrant buttercream that adds a splash of color to your dessert table.
- Flavor fusion of rich dark chocolate and zesty blood orange creates a perfect balance that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Easy to make! You don’t need to be a pro baker to impress your loved ones—this recipe is straightforward and forgiving.
- Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, and a delightful treat for any occasion.
Make sure to check out how to prepare candied oranges for a stunning and flavorful touch!
Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Water – 1 1/2 cups (355mL) helps to create a moist cake texture.
- Granulated Sugar – 1 1/2 cups (300g) keeps the cake sweet and balances the chocolate’s bitterness.
- Medium Orange – A whole orange adds natural citrus flavor that brightens the cake.
- Blood Orange Zest – Zest from 2 blood oranges enhances the cake with aromatic freshness.
- Olive Oil – 3/4 cup (177mL) provides moisture and a subtle fruitiness.
- Blood Orange Juice – 3/4 cup (177mL) adds bold citrus notes and rich flavor (about 4 large oranges).
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups (240g), spooned and leveled for structure and stability.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – 3/4 cup (60g), spooned and leveled, delivers that deep chocolate flavor.
- Salt – 1/2 tsp to enhance all the flavors in the cake.
- Baking Soda – 2 tsp for leavening that ensures a light texture.
- Additional Water – 1 1/4 cup (296mL) is necessary to help combine all the ingredients effectively.
For the Blood Orange Buttercream
- Unsalted Butter – 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks), at room temperature, for a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Blood Orange Zest – Zest from 3 blood oranges infuses the buttercream with vibrant zest and tang.
- Powdered Sugar – 6 cups (720g), spooned and leveled for that perfect, sweet frosting.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp to round out the flavors beautifully.
- Blood Orange Juice – 1/4 cup (59mL) adds richness and a burst of citrus flavor.
For the Ganache
- Dark Chocolate – 1/2 cup (3oz) creates a luscious topping that complements the cake’s flavors.
- Half and Half – 1/2 cup (118mL) (or 1/4 cup cream with 1/4 cup milk) helps achieve a smooth and pourable ganache.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to indulge your senses with this delightful Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake!
How to Make Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake
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Prepare candied oranges by combining water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the medium orange, simmering for about 30 minutes until tender and syrupy. Remove and let cool.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round baking pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper for easy release.
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Mix the blood orange zest, olive oil, and blood orange juice in a large bowl until well combined, creating a fragrant base for your cake.
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Combine flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda in another bowl. This dry mixture will provide the structure and rich chocolate flavor to your cake.
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Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix for a tender texture!
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Stir in an additional 1 1/4 cups of water until fully combined and smooth. Your batter should be slightly runny, ensuring a moist cake.
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Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Wait for them to cool completely on a wire rack.
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Beat the butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy, then add blood orange zest, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and blood orange juice. Continue beating until creamy and well blended for your buttercream.
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Heat dark chocolate and half and half in a microwave-safe bowl until melted and smooth, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent burning. This will be your rich ganache!
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Assemble by layering one cake round with buttercream, then topping with the second layer. Finish with a generous drizzle of chocolate ganache over the top and sides for a luxe finish.
Optional: Garnish with extra blood orange slices for a stunning presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Variations
Feel free to personalize your cake experience with these delightful twists that will elevate your dessert!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice.
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Vegan: Substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture and use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk for a deliciously vegan take. The rich flavors won’t disappoint!
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Extra Zesty: Boost the citrus flavor by adding an extra tablespoon of blood orange zest to both the cake and the buttercream.
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Mocha Twist: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the dry mixture for a delightful mocha flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or hazelnuts into the batter for added texture and nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
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Boozy Bliss: Brush the cake layers with a splash of blood orange liqueur before frosting to add an adult twist that takes the flavor to new heights.
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Spiced Variation: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a touch of chili powder to give your cake a warm, spicy background that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet and tangy notes.
These variations not only add flair but also allow you to experiment with flavors and textures, making your baking experience feel fresh and exciting!
Storage Tips for Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake
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Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the cake within 1-2 days, store it at room temperature, covered with a cake dome or in an airtight container to keep it moist.
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Fridge: To extend freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual cake layers in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
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Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently warm in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a delightful contrast with the rich flavors of the Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake!
Make Ahead Options
These Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake components are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the candied oranges up to 3 days in advance by simmering them as instructed, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cake itself can be baked a day ahead; simply wrap the cooled layers tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the buttercream and ganache, make them up to 24 hours ahead; keep the buttercream sealed in the fridge while allowing the ganache to cool to room temperature before storing. When you’re ready to assemble, just whip the buttercream for a few seconds to restore its fluffiness, and layer your cake with the filling and luscious ganache—ensuring it’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake?
Nothing pairs better with a luscious slice of cake than delightful accompaniments that enhance your dessert experience.
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Fresh Berries: A vibrant medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast that lightens each bite of rich cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream creates a lovely balance against the intense chocolate and citrus flavors.
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Espresso: A cup of rich, bold espresso accentuates the deep chocolate notes while keeping your palate refreshed and awake.
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Blood Orange Sorbet: This frozen treat mirrors the citrus notes of the cake, offering a cool respite and an invigorating burst of flavor.
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Chocolate-Covered Almonds: Their crunchy texture enhances the cake’s tenderness while adding a complementary chocolate dimension to the dessert spread.
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Mint Tea: A soothing cup of fresh mint tea cleanses the palate superbly, making it the perfect drink to enjoy alongside a sweet slice.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luscious touch to each slice, softening the rich elements with a creamy finish.
Each of these pairings tells its own story, crafting an experience that transforms your dessert into a feast for the senses.
Expert Tips for Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter, allowing the cake to rise evenly and maintain moisture.
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Avoid Overmixing: Combine your wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stir gently to maintain that light texture!
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Use Fresh Zest: Fresh blood orange zest is key to vibrant flavor! Avoid using dried zests, as they lack the essential oils that give your Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake its delightful citrus aroma.
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Cool Completely: Always let the baked cake layers cool completely before frosting; this prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off the cake.
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Drizzle Warm Ganache: For a stunning presentation, use ganache while it’s still warm and pourable. It will create beautiful drips down the sides of your cake, enhancing its visual appeal!
Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of blood oranges should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! Look for blood oranges that have a vibrant, deep red color and feel firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as this may indicate overripeness. Freshness is crucial for that zesty, sweet flavor that makes this cake shine.
How should I store leftovers?
For room temperature storage, keep the cake covered for up to 1-2 days to retain moisture. If you want to enjoy it longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out — nobody wants a dry slice of cake!
Can I freeze the Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw the layers overnight in the fridge, then frost them while they are cold for easier handling.
What if my cake layers sink in the middle after baking?
This can happen for a couple of reasons, the most common being that they weren’t fully baked. Make sure to do the toothpick test – if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done! Also, be mindful of overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too soon; both can disrupt the rise, leading to sinking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Definitely! This recipe contains gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. Additionally, for dairy-free buttercream, try using a plant-based butter and coconut cream for the ganache. Always check specific brands for any allergy concerns, just in case!
How can I make the buttercream less sweet?
If you find the buttercream too sweet, you can balance it by adding a little more blood orange juice or zest. This not only reduces sweetness but also enhances the citrus flavor. If you want, you can also mix in a pinch of salt to help tone down the sweetness overall. Enjoy your baking adventures with this Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake!
Indulge in Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare candied oranges by combining water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the medium orange, simmering for about 30 minutes until tender and syrupy. Remove and let cool.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round baking pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper for easy release.
- Mix the blood orange zest, olive oil, and blood orange juice in a large bowl until well combined.
- Combine flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda in another bowl.
- Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Stir in an additional 1 1/4 cups of water until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Wait for them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Beat the butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy, then add blood orange zest, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and blood orange juice. Continue beating until creamy and well blended.
- Heat dark chocolate and half and half in a microwave-safe bowl until melted and smooth, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent burning.
- Assemble by layering one cake round with buttercream, then topping with the second layer. Finish with a generous drizzle of chocolate ganache over the top and sides.