Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that beautifully balances rich indulgence and zesty brightness, this Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Featuring the deep, velvety notes of high-quality dark chocolate perfectly complemented by the fresh, citrusy zing of blood oranges, this cake is approachable yet impressive. Each bite offers a moist, tender crumb infused with natural fruit oils, making it a must-try for chocolate lovers and citrus enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients can make all the difference, and this recipe is a perfect example. From the luxurious dark chocolate that lends intensity to the cake, to the fresh blood orange juice that provides a lively burst of flavor, every component plays an essential role in creating this memorable dessert.
- High-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher): Choose a rich dark chocolate for the best deep cocoa flavor and smooth texture.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Adds moisture and a tender crumb without overpowering the other flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Balances the intense bitterness of dark chocolate with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Large eggs: Bind ingredients together and help the cake rise to a light, fluffy texture.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and keeps the cake tender when properly measured and mixed.
- Baking powder: Works as the leavening agent to help your cake rise perfectly.
- Zest from 2 blood oranges: Imparts a fragrant, citrusy aroma that enriches each bite.
- Freshly squeezed blood orange juice: Adds vibrant color and a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness.
- Pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and gives the cake a warm, inviting sweetness.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan to ensure your cake releases smoothly once baked. This essential step prevents sticking and lets your masterpiece come out clean.
Step 2: Melt the Dark Chocolate
Melt the dark chocolate gently in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until you’ve reached that luscious, smooth consistency. Letting it cool slightly before adding to the batter ensures your eggs won’t scramble later on.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air into the batter, making your cake wonderfully tender.
Step 4: Add the Eggs, Chocolate, and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract for that deep flavor and aromatic warmth.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and zest from the blood oranges in a separate bowl. This allows for even distribution of the leavening and citrus oils before you gently fold it into your wet mixture just until combined — be careful not to overmix, or you risk a dense cake.
Step 6: Fold in Blood Orange Juice and Additional Zest
Gently fold in the freshly squeezed blood orange juice along with zest from an additional orange. This step infuses the batter with a bright, acidic note, adding complexity and moisture.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Pour your batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool thoroughly in the pan before serving, allowing flavors to settle beautifully.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The magic in serving this cake lies in enhancing its natural flavors without overwhelming them. Consider garnishing with thin slices of blood orange for a fresh pop of color and an extra citrus touch. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few dark chocolate shavings can add elegance and texture.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the chocolate’s richness and the citrus’s bright acidity. Fresh berries also make a lovely, colorful accompaniment that brings additional freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a delightful twist, try layering slices of this Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe with mascarpone cream and blood orange segments in a dessert trifle. Serving it slightly warm with a drizzle of blood orange syrup can create an unforgettable treat for your guests. Think beyond the traditional plate and embrace beautiful garnishes to wow your friends and family!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep your cake tightly covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its moist texture without drying out, ensuring each slice tastes as fresh as the first.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake for up to a month by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before bringing it to room temperature.
Reheating
To enjoy your cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This short burst warms the chocolate and enhances the juicy blood orange flavor, making it feel freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?
Absolutely! While blood oranges lend a unique color and flavor, regular oranges can still provide a lovely citrus note. The cake will be just as delicious, though it won’t have the signature deep red hues.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and choose dairy-free chocolate to accommodate dietary preferences. The texture may shift slightly, but the flavor will remain delightful.
Can I use cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate?
This recipe relies on melted dark chocolate for its richness and smooth texture, which cocoa powder alone can’t fully replicate. For best results, use the chocolate as called for, but some bakers have had success blending cocoa powder with additional fats to mimic richness.
How can I make the cake more moist?
Using the fresh blood orange juice and zest as directed already adds moisture and brightness. Make sure not to overbake your cake, and consider brushing the baked cake with a simple syrup infused with blood orange juice for extra juiciness.
Can I bake this in cupcakes instead of a cake pan?
Definitely! This batter works wonderfully for cupcakes. Just reduce the baking time to about 18-22 minutes, and keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Cupcakes also make for a fun, individual serving option.
Final Thoughts
This Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe is a celebration of intense chocolate and vibrant citrus coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this cake is stunning both in flavor and presentation. I cannot recommend enough giving it a try — it might just become your new favorite dessert to bake and share!
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Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich and vibrant flavors of this Dark Chocolate Blood Orange Cake, combining the deep intensity of high-quality dark chocolate with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh blood oranges. Perfectly moist and delectably tender, this cake makes an elegant dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chocolate Base
- 1 cup high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Zest from 2 blood oranges
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Melt the chocolate: Place the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. Let it cool slightly to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and light in color, indicating well incorporated air for a tender crumb.
- Add eggs and chocolate: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Then add the melted chocolate along with the vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and blood orange zest to evenly distribute the leavening and citrus flavor.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter and preserving tenderness.
- Fold in blood orange juice and additional zest: Gently fold in the freshly squeezed blood orange juice and additional zest to infuse the batter with bright citrus flavor without deflating it.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve at room temperature and enjoy the harmonious blend of chocolate and blood orange flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the melted chocolate is cooled slightly before mixing with eggs to prevent curdling.
- Use fresh blood oranges for authentic flavor, but regular oranges can be a substitute if unavailable.
- Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the cake tender.
- For an extra touch, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a blood orange glaze.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
