I remember the first time I tried a slice of chocolate orange cake. I was at a small family gathering, and my aunt had brought a homemade cake that smelled like heaven. The chocolate was rich and velvety, while the hint of orange was like sunshine cutting through the sweetness. That day, I realized how a simple twist-adding citrus to chocolate-could transform a classic dessert into something magical.
Chocolate orange cake isn’t just a dessert. It’s a conversation starter, a cozy companion for afternoon tea, and a way to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Today, we’ll explore Jamie Oliver’s version of this iconic treat.
Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe
I discovered Jamie Oliver’s chocolate orange cake during a lazy Sunday browsing session. The recipe was simple, yet full of character. I liked that it didn’t demand fancy ingredients or complicated steps.
Here’s what makes Jamie’s recipe stand out:
- Uses natural orange zest instead of artificial flavoring.
- Combines dark chocolate with butter for a smooth, rich texture.
- Stays moist and tender, even a few days after baking.
- Easy enough for beginners, yet impressive for seasoned bakers.
Ingredients Needed
The first time I shopped for this cake, I stood in front of the baking aisle, amazed at how few ingredients could make something so decadent. Here’s the exact list Jamie recommends:
- 250g unsalted butter
- 250g caster sugar
- 250g self-raising flour
- 50g cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 100g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
- 100ml milk
- Optional: extra icing sugar for dusting or chocolate shavings
I love how straightforward this list is. No exotic items. No complicated measurements. Everything is probably already in your kitchen.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate Orange Cake
I remember the nervous excitement of my first bake. The kitchen smelled like chocolate heaven, and I couldn’t wait to try a slice. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 20cm cake tin.
- Melt the dark chocolate and butter together until smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Fold in the flour and cocoa powder gradually.
- Add the melted chocolate mixture and milk. Stir gently.
- Mix in the orange zest. The aroma hits immediately!
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes. A skewer should come out mostly clean.
- Let the cake cool before removing from the tin.
Pro tip: The smell while it bakes is irresistible. Hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Ingredient Science Spotlight
The first time I thought about why this cake works so well, I realized baking is a mini science experiment.
- Cocoa powder: Provides structure and deep chocolate flavor. It also reacts with baking powder to help the cake rise.
- Butter: Adds moisture, richness, and a tender crumb. It also carries the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Eggs: Act as a binder and help trap air for fluffiness.
- Orange zest: Contains oils that brighten the chocolate and cut through its sweetness naturally.
Understanding these interactions makes baking feel like magic with a method.
Expert Tips
From my countless attempts at chocolate-orange desserts, these tips save time and guarantee success:
- Use room temperature eggs for better whisking.
- Sift cocoa and flour to avoid lumps.
- Don’t overmix once flour is added. It keeps the cake tender.
- Toast the orange zest slightly for a deeper aroma.
- Use a water bath if you want an extra moist texture.
Recipe Variations
The first time I experimented, I added a few twists. Here are ideas to make the cake your own:
- Gluten-free version: Replace flour with almond or oat flour.
- Extra chocolaty: Fold in chocolate chips.
- Orange syrup glaze: Brush a sugar-orange syrup on the cooled cake for extra zing.
- Vegan option: Swap butter with coconut oil and eggs with flax eggs.
Each variation has its charm, and it’s fun to see how small tweaks change the texture and flavor.
Final Words
I’ve baked this cake countless times, and every single batch brings joy. Friends always comment on the perfect balance of chocolate and citrus. It’s a recipe that feels luxurious but is surprisingly approachable.
Baking this cake isn’t just about dessert. It’s about creating moments, indulging in a sensory experience, and appreciating the little science behind great baking.
FAQs
Can I Use Milk Chocolate Instead Of Dark Chocolate?
Yes, you can. Milk chocolate will make the cake sweeter, but it will still taste great.
How Long Does The Chocolate Orange Cake Last?
The cake should stay fresh for about 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead Of Time?
Definitely! You can bake it a day or two in advance. Just store it in a cool place or in the fridge if you prefer.