Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

I love indulging in a rich, moist cake that combines flavors in a unique way. This Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake has become a favorite in my home, as the balance of chocolate and the zest of fresh oranges creates a delightful treat. It's perfect for gatherings, and I enjoy how easily it comes together. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a cake that not only looks impressive but tastes divine, making it an instant crowd-pleaser at parties or as an afternoon snack.

Created by

Briar Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:29:34.373Z

When I first baked this Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake, I was surprised at how well the chocolate and citrus complemented each other. After testing a few recipes, the addition of orange zest truly took the cake to the next level. It enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a depth that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes, and serving it with a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar gives it an elegant finish. Don’t skip the zest; it’s what makes this cake unforgettable!

        Why You'll 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

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. For instance, the unsweetened cocoa powder not only imparts a deep, rich chocolate flavor but also contributes to the cake’s moistness. Meanwhile, the orange zest brightens the cake with its citrusy aroma, cutting through the richness and creating a delightful contrast that keeps each bite interesting. Make sure to use fresh oranges for the zest; they're far more potent than dried and can elevate the overall experience.

The leavening agents - baking powder and baking soda - work together to create a light, tender crumb. If you’re out of baking soda, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder, but keep in mind that the texture might differ just slightly. Additionally, the whole milk serves as a key ingredient that adds richness and moisture. If you prefer a non-dairy option, oat or almond milk can be substituted, although the flavor will vary slightly.

Techniques for Success

Mixing the ingredients properly is essential for this cake’s structure. When you combine the dry ingredients, be sure to whisk thoroughly to incorporate air, which helps in creating a lighter cake. When adding wet to dry, mix just until the ingredients are combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture. The boiling water is a secret to this recipe's moistness—don’t skip it! It activates the cocoa and helps to dissolve the sugar effectively, ensuring a uniform batter.

Baking times can vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on your cake in the last few minutes of baking. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can tent the cake with foil to prevent over-baking. Remember, once baked, allowing the cake to cool for a specific time before moving it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure and prevents breaking.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience!

Cake Ingredients

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

Chocolate Ganache (optional)

1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best result.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a perfect cake!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well blended.

Add wet ingredients

Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in the boiling water and orange zest until combined.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the ganache

If using ganache, heat cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl, let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve with ganache if desired.

Enjoy your delicious cake with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of orange flavor, consider adding a few drops of orange extract to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Orange Sheet Cake stands beautifully on its own, but you can elevate its presentation and flavor by adding a drizzle of the chocolate ganache. This not only adds a rich, silky texture but also enhances the overall chocolate experience. For added flair, consider topping it with candied orange slices or a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance during special occasions.

For a more indulgent treat, serve this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The creamy, cool elements contrast wonderfully with the warm, rich cake, creating a delightful mouthfeel. It's a crowd-pleaser that transforms this simple sheet cake into a noteworthy dessert, perfect for any gathering.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This sheet cake does particularly well in terms of storage. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it for a longer period, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, let them come to room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them slightly.

If you're planning to make this cake ahead of time, consider preparing the batter and baking it a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors can deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Just remember to allow the cake to come to room temperature before frosting, as cold cake may cause the ganache to seize.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of citrus?

Absolutely! Lemon or lime zest can also create a refreshing flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just keep it well covered.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a flaxseed meal or applesauce as a substitute for eggs.