Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your holiday guests with a dessert that captures all the magic of the season, this Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining rich, indulgent chocolate with bright, zesty orange, it’s the perfect balance of holiday warmth and refreshing citrus. Moist and tender, with a glossy chocolate ganache that drizzles elegantly over the top, this cake isn’t just delicious—it’s a stunning showstopper that will bring smiles around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just love a celebratory treat, this cake offers a taste of Christmas joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, coming together in simple harmony to deliver a cake that’s bursting with flavor and texture. From creamy butter and luscious dark chocolate to the fresh zing of orange zest, each piece adds its own special touch to the overall experience.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup / 225g): Provides the rich, creamy base that keeps the cake moist and tender throughout.
• Brown sugar (1 cup / 200g): Adds a deep caramel sweetness that perfectly complements the chocolate.
• Large eggs (4): Bind the batter while contributing to the cake’s light and fluffy texture.
• All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups / 180g): The foundation for structure, balanced with ground almonds for a subtle nutty bite.
• Ground almonds (½ cup / 50g): Offers moistness and a delicate crunch without overpowering the chocolate.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (½ cup / 45g): Delivers the deep, rich chocolate flavor that’s central to this festive delight.
• Baking powder (1 tsp) and baking soda (½ tsp): Help the cake rise beautifully for a light but sturdy crumb.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances all the sweet and citrusy flavors, bringing balance to the cake.
• Orange zest (zest of 2 oranges): Bursts with fresh citrus aroma to brighten every bite.
• Orange juice (juice of 1 orange, about ¼ cup): Adds moisture and tanginess to complement the chocolate notes.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavor with a warm, familiar sweetness.
• Buttermilk (½ cup / 120ml): Adds tenderness and helps activate the leavening agents for the perfect texture.
• Dark chocolate chips (½ cup / 90g): Melts into pockets of gooey chocolate throughout the cake for extra indulgence.
• Optional: Chopped candied orange peel or dried cranberries (¼ cup): Adds pops of festive color and bite-sized bursts of fruity sweetness.

• For the ganache: Heavy cream (¾ cup / 180ml), dark chocolate (1 cup / 175g, chopped), and optional orange liqueur (1 tbsp) to create a luscious glaze that shines like holiday magic.
• Optional toppings: Grated orange zest, sugared cranberries, and chocolate curls to elevate your cake into a festive masterpiece.

How to Make Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to create that perfect bake. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure your cake lifts out easily after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and invitingly smooth. This step builds the cake’s tender crumb and sets the stage for a beautifully textured dessert.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Citrus

Beat in the eggs one at a time, allowing each to fully incorporate. This guarantees even moisture and rise. Next, stir in the freshly grated orange zest, juicy orange juice, and vanilla extract—they give this cake its signature bright, aromatic pop that makes the flavor truly festive.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of all the rising agents and flavors before folding them into the wet mixture.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient blend to the wet batter, alternating with buttermilk. This alternating method helps prevent lumps and keeps the batter silky smooth and even-textured.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Optional Fruits

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips along with your choice of chopped candied orange peel or dried cranberries. This step infuses bursts of melty chocolate and festive fruity accents that make each slice exciting.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs clinging to it—trust this test to ensure your cake is perfectly moist, not dry.

Step 8: Cool and Prepare Ganache

After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, heat the heavy cream just until it simmers and pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let this sit for 2 minutes before stirring until perfectly smooth. Add orange liqueur now if you’re feeling a bit fancy.

Step 9: Glaze and Decorate

Pour the luscious ganache evenly over your cooled cake, letting it dribble down the sides in a decadent waterfall. Finish by decorating with grated orange zest, sugared cranberries, or chocolate curls for a stunning festive touch that will wow everyone.

How to Serve Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh grated orange zest scattered on top adds vibrant color and a zesty aroma that teases your senses before the first bite. Sugared cranberries contribute a sparkling look along with a pleasant tartness, while chocolate curls bring texture and elegance to every slice. These garnishes turn a delicious cake into a holiday work of art.

Side Dishes

Serve this Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe alongside dollops of lightly whipped cream or creamy vanilla ice cream to bring out its rich flavors. A warm cup of spiced mulled wine or freshly brewed coffee also pairs beautifully, making your dessert even more comforting and celebratory.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique holiday experience, present the cake on a festive platter adorned with fresh evergreen sprigs or cinnamon sticks for a seasonal touch. You can also slice the cake into mini portions and serve alongside a drizzle of tangy citrus sauce or a splash of your favorite orange liqueur for an adult-only treat that feels truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cake should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay moist and flavorful for up to three days. Cover it well to protect the ganache glaze and maintain that perfect fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully, making it ideal for prepping ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before returning to room temperature, and refresh the ganache topping if needed.

Reheating

While this cake is lovely served at room temperature, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to soften the chocolate and bring out the warm orange aromas. Just be careful to avoid overheating so the ganache stays glossy and luscious.

FAQs

Can I make this cake nut-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground almonds and replace them with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. This adjustment won’t compromise the moisture or flavor, keeping the Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe safe for those with nut allergies.

Is it okay to use fresh orange juice instead of bottled?

Freshly squeezed orange juice is highly recommended as it provides a brighter, more natural citrus flavor that bottled juice can’t match. It really enhances the festive citrus notes in this cake.

What kind of chocolate works best for the ganache?

Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for a truly rich and smooth ganache. Avoid lower-quality chocolate as it can affect the texture and glossiness of the glaze.

Can I substitute the orange liqueur in the ganache?

If you prefer to skip alcohol, you can leave it out without affecting the overall taste much. Alternatively, a teaspoon of orange extract or some extra orange zest mixed into the ganache adds a lovely citrus kick.

How far in advance can I make this cake?

This Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe actually benefits from resting overnight or even a day ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and apply the ganache on the day you plan to serve for best presentation.

Final Thoughts

This Festive Chocolate Orange Christmas Cake Recipe is truly one of those special desserts that brings joy with every slice. Its perfect blend of rich chocolate and bright orange creates a flavor combination that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, this cake promises to be a memorable highlight of your holiday season. Give it a try, and watch it become your new festive favorite!

Print