Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup hot water; Zest of 1 large orange; Juice of 1 large orange; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 1 teaspoon orange zest

Highlighted under: Home Baking Favorites

I absolutely love baking, and this Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake has become one of my go-to recipes for gatherings. The combination of rich chocolate and vibrant orange is simply irresistible, creating a dessert that pleases everyone. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that feels both comforting and festive. I enjoy making this cake for birthdays, barbecues, or just whenever I need a little pick-me-up. The best part? It’s easy to whip up and brings a smile to every face that tries it!

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:25:34.983Z

When I first decided to bake a chocolate-orange cake, I was skeptical about how the flavors would mesh. But after trying several iterations, I discovered the secret lies in using quality cocoa powder and fresh orange zest. This creates a vibrant depth of flavor that simply cannot be replicated by imitation extracts. Additionally, the buttermilk in the batter keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.

One tip I’ve found to elevate this cake is to prepare a simple orange glaze to drizzle on top after it cools. This adds another layer of flavor and a beautiful shine that makes the cake not only taste amazing but look stunning as well. It’s a showstopper that is deceptively easy to make!

        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 Role of Orange in the Recipe

The vibrant notes of orange in this Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake play a crucial role in balancing the richness of the cocoa. The fresh zest adds an aromatic quality, while the juice infuses moisture and brightness into the batter. Be sure to zest the orange before juicing; using a fine zester will ensure a fragrant oil release, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cake. The zest's subtle bitterness complements the sweetness of the cake, creating a beautifully dynamic dessert.

For those who may not have fresh oranges, you can successfully substitute with high-quality orange extract. Use about 1 teaspoon of orange extract for the zest and juice combined. This will provide a similar flavor profile, but be cautious not to overpower the chocolate with the extract's intensity. Fresh citrus is always preferred for its vibrant oils and zest, but the extract can save the day in a pinch.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

A significant factor in achieving a tender, moist cake is the incorporation of buttermilk and the correct mixing technique. Buttermilk not only helps to leaven the cake but also adds a rich texture and subtle tanginess. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the flour is moistened. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake as it develops gluten, so stop as soon as everything is incorporated. The addition of hot water at the end ensures a smooth, pourable batter that contributes to a light crumb once baked.

Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the specific pan size used. The toothpick test is your best indicator of doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If you notice that the edges are pulling away from the pan and the top is slightly domed, that’s a good indicator the cake is done. If your cake seems to rise too much in the middle, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F and extending the baking time slightly.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup hot water
Zest of 1 large orange
Juice of 1 large orange

For the Orange Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a sheet cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, orange zest, and juice.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the hot water until smooth.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn onto a wire rack to cool completely. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest, then drizzle over the cooled cake.

Pro Tips

Ensure your orange zest is fresh for the best flavor, and don't skip the buttermilk—it's a key to the cake's moistness.

Storage and Freezing Tips

This Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days if wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out. If you wish to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which will extend its freshness for up to a week. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving, as the flavors really shine when it's not chilled.

For longer storage, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will last for up to three months. To defrost, simply leave it at room temperature for a couple of hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, adding a fresh layer of glaze will enhance its appearance and taste.

Serving Suggestions

There are numerous ways to serve this decadent cake that can elevate your dessert experience. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can provide a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate and citrus flavors. For added texture and flair, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or candied orange slices on top of the glaze.

Pairing the cake with a cup of coffee or tea enhances the enjoyment thanks to the citrus's bright notes against the warm, rich chocolate. If you’re serving it at a gathering, cut it into squares and plate them with fresh fruit to offer a light balance to the cake’s indulgence. This combination not only looks beautiful but also adds a refreshing element to each bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free flour, but the texture may vary.

→ How should I store the cake?

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

→ Can this cake be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without the glaze. Just wrap it tightly and it will last for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.