Moist Orange Cake with Rich Chocolate Frosting

If you’re looking for a cake that perfectly balances citrus brightness with deep chocolate richness, this moist orange cake is the answer. Baked in a convenient 9×13 pan, it’s ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying at home with family. This cake is sure to delight with its tender crumb and vibrant flavor.

Imagine taking a bite of this cake and experiencing the refreshing taste of orange mingling beautifully with luscious chocolate frosting. It’s like a little celebration of flavors in every slice. Trust me, once you serve this, everyone will be asking for the recipe!

This dessert is not only simple to whip up, but it’s also a fantastic way to use fresh oranges, bringing a burst of natural sweetness that complements the richness of the chocolate. You can even add a hint of orange zest to the frosting for an extra citrus kick!

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Deliciously Easy Orange Cake with Chocolate Frosting

Moist orange cake with chocolate frosting in a 9x13 pan, garnished with orange slices and chocolate shavings.

This orange cake is incredibly moist and fluffy, bursting with fresh orange flavor, while the rich chocolate frosting adds a decadent finish. Each bite is a delightful contrast of tangy and sweet, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
1/4 cup milk (for frosting)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 baking pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined and smooth.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the top.
Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy your moist orange cake with chocolate frosting!