There are certain flavor pairings that always draw me back when I bake. Fruit with lemon is a classic, cardamom has its charm, but nothing beats the combination of chocolate and orange. Maybe it's the fond memories of foil-wrapped chocolate oranges my parents would bring home that solidified my love for this flavor.

This marbled chocolate orange loaf cake is an exciting way to celebrate this classic combo. It's vegan, has a short ingredient list—likely items you already have—and is surprisingly easy to whip up. If you're searching for a weekend baking project, this cake is calling your name!

easy chocolate orange cake

Ingredients for the Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake

Orange. We'll utilize both the zest and juice of one orange, giving this loaf an aromatic touch.

Granulated Sugar. Mixing the orange zest into the sugar enhances its flavor.

Olive Oil. Opt for a quality variety—it adds depth and richness to the cake.

Dairy-Free Milk. I used almond milk, but feel free to use any type you prefer!

All-Purpose Flour. A staple for baking.

Cocoa Powder. This adds that irresistible chocolate flavor to half of the batter.

Baking Powder. This is what makes the cake rise.

Salt. Essential for balancing flavors.

Vanilla. A dash in the batter elevates the taste, though it's optional.

Chopped Chocolate. Dark chocolate ganache on top adds luxurious richness.

chocolate orange loaf cake

Steps to Create Your Marbled Chocolate Orange Loaf

This cake is made like most recipes, but you'll prepare two batters to swirl together in a loaf pan. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Preheat your oven and line the loaf pan to make the process smooth.
  • First, mix the wet ingredients in both bowls. Once ready, add flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder to their respective bowls so both batters are ready to go at the same time. This saves time compared to prepping one batter first.
  • As the cake cools, prepare the ganache. I let mine sit for a bit to thicken after mixing, making it easier to drizzle later.
oranges

Storing Leftovers for This Cake Recipe

If you plan to make this cake in advance, hold off on adding the ganache until you're ready to serve to prevent any mess. Pouring the ganache in front of guests adds a fun touch. If you do this, wrap the loaf cake and store it in an airtight container until it's time to top it.

To keep leftovers, store them in an airtight container on the countertop. This cake is best enjoyed on the day it's made and the next day, but it can last another day if stored properly.

marble chocolate orange cake

Description

A simple chocolate orange loaf cake for your next baking adventure.

Ingredients

For the Orange Cake Batter:

  • Zest of 1 orange

  • 1/2 cup sugar (110g)

  • Juice of 1 orange (about 5 tablespoons)

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1/2 cup milk of choice

  • 1 1/4 cup flour (150g)

  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Chocolate Cake Batter:

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder

  • 1 cup flour (120g)

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • Pinch of espresso powder (optional)

For the ganache:

  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup chopped dark chocolate

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 8×4 loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. Make the cake batters. For the orange cake, mix granulated sugar with orange zest to release the flavor, then add orange juice, olive oil, and milk, whisking until smooth. For the chocolate batter, combine the milk, olive oil, and sugar in the second bowl and whisk until smooth. Add dry ingredients to each bowl and mix until smooth.
  3. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, alternate scoops of both batters into the loaf pan until all batter is used. Gently swirl the batters together with a knife or toothpick. Place the loaf in the oven on the middle rack and bake for 40-45 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick around 40 minutes.
  4. After baking, cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. To prepare the ganache, warm the milk in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds. Add the chocolate and stir until smooth. If you prefer a thicker ganache, add more chocolate.
  6. Top the cooled cake with ganache before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 45
  • Category: cake

Keywords: marble, orange, chocolate, loaf cake