Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe

Last updated on February 18th, 2025

Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers who enjoy a citrusy twist. This cake combines rich dark chocolate, zesty orange, and nutty almonds to create an irresistible treat with a moist texture and deep flavor.

This recipe brings together the intense flavors of cocoa, the vibrant aroma of oranges, and the subtle crunch of almonds to create a moist, flavorful masterpiece. It’s easy to make, doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and guarantees a bakery-style cake right from your home kitchen.

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In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step of the process, share some expert tips to get the best results, and even talk about my personal experience making this cake under the guidance of Chef Emma. Ready to bake? Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a chocolate lover, a citrus enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a perfectly textured cake, you’ll absolutely love Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe. Here’s why:

Incredible Flavor Combination

The combination of dark chocolate, fresh orange zest, and toasted almonds creates a unique blend of flavors. It’s rich yet refreshing, nutty yet smooth—a true delight in every bite.

Related: Love chocolate-based cakes? Try this Jovial Chocolate Cake Recipe for another indulgent and easy-to-make dessert.

Perfectly Moist and Fluffy

No one likes a dry cake. This recipe ensures a super moist, tender crumb with the perfect amount of fluffiness, making it irresistible.

Simple and Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a professional baker to nail this recipe. With easy-to-follow steps and basic ingredients, anyone can make this delicious cake from scratch.

Great for Any Occasion

This cake is fancy enough for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings, yet simple enough for a weekend treat.

Customizable & Adaptable

You can adjust the sweetness, swap ingredients, or even turn this into a gluten-free or vegan-friendly cake with simple modifications (which we’ll discuss later).

Ingredients for Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe

A great cake starts with high-quality ingredients. This recipe uses a combination of rich chocolate, fresh oranges, and ground almonds to create an unforgettable dessert. Below is a detailed list of everything you’ll need, along with possible substitutions for dietary preferences.

Main Ingredients

• Dark Chocolate (70% Cocoa or Higher) – 200g
  Deepens the flavor and adds richness. Use a high-quality chocolate bar rather than chocolate chips for the best results.
• Unsalted Butter – 150g
  Adds moisture and enhances the texture. If using salted butter, reduce added salt.
• Granulated Sugar – 180g
  Provides sweetness and structure. You can substitute with coconut sugar or light brown sugar for a slight caramelized taste.
• Eggs – 4 Large
  Acts as a binding agent and helps with texture. If making a vegan version, substitute with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
• All-Purpose Flour – 100g
  Creates the base structure. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Ground Almonds – 80g
  Adds a delicate nutty texture and enhances the flavor. You can toast the almonds before grinding for extra depth.
• Baking Powder – 1 ½ Teaspoons
  Helps the cake rise and creates a light texture.
• Fresh Orange Zest – From 2 Oranges
  Gives the cake its citrusy aroma and enhances the chocolate flavor. Organic oranges are best since you’ll be using the peel.
• Fresh Orange Juice – 50ml
  Keeps the cake moist and complements the chocolate beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 Teaspoon
  Balances and enhances the flavors.
• Pinch of Salt
  Intensifies the chocolate taste.

Pro Tip: If you love citrus-infused cakes, check out How to Make Orange Cake from Scratch for more ideas!

Optional Add-Ins

• Chopped Dark Chocolate or Chocolate Chips (50g) – For extra richness.
• Toasted Almond Slices – For added crunch and decoration.
• Cocoa Powder (1 Tablespoon) – If you want a slightly deeper chocolate flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free chocolate.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.

With all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next step: preparing the equipment and tools you’ll need for a perfect bake.

Equipment Needed

Having the right tools can make the baking process smoother and ensure the best results. Here’s a list of essential kitchen equipment you’ll need to prepare the Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe successfully.

Essential Baking Tools

• Mixing Bowls (at least two sizes)
  Needed for mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them.
• Whisk & Spatula
  A whisk helps to blend ingredients evenly, while a spatula is essential for folding the batter and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
• Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk
  While you can whisk by hand, an electric mixer makes it much easier to achieve a light and fluffy batter, especially when beating the eggs and sugar.
• Double Boiler or Heatproof Bowl
  Used to melt chocolate gently without burning it. If you don’t have a double boiler, place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
• Zester or Microplane Grater
  Essential for grating the fresh orange zest, which gives the cake its citrusy fragrance.
• Citrus Juicer
  To extract fresh orange juice without seeds or pulp.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons
  Precise measurements ensure consistent baking results. A digital kitchen scale can also be helpful for weighing ingredients accurately.
• 8-inch or 9-inch Cake Pan (Springform Recommended)
  A springform pan makes it easier to remove the cake without damaging its structure. If using a regular cake pan, be sure to grease and line it with parchment paper.
• Parchment Paper
  Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and makes cleanup easier.
• Wire Cooling Rack
  Allows the cake to cool evenly, preventing a soggy bottom.

Optional Tools for a Professional Finish

• Sifter – To sift dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder, ensuring a smoother batter.
• Offset Spatula – Useful for spreading ganache or frosting evenly.
• Pastry Brush – Helps apply a light layer of orange syrup for extra moisture.

Now that we have the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to move on to the most exciting part—baking the cake! The next section will cover the step-by-step instructions to help you make the perfect Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe from scratch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that all the ingredients and equipment are ready, it’s time to start baking. Follow these detailed step-by-step instructions to create a rich, moist, and flavorful Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Pan

• Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
• Grease an 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan with butter and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If using a springform pan, make sure it’s properly sealed to avoid leaks.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

• Chop 200g of dark chocolate into small pieces for even melting.
• Place the chocolate and 150g unsalted butter in a heatproof bowl.
• Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), making sure the bowl does not touch the water. Stir occasionally until fully melted.
• Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk 4 eggs with 180g granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and slightly fluffy. If using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes.
• Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, the zest of 2 oranges, and 50ml fresh orange juice, then whisk to combine.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, sift together:
  • 100g all-purpose flour
  • 80g ground almonds
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • A pinch of salt
• Sifting helps to remove lumps and ensures even distribution of ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Slowly pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the bowl with the whisked eggs and sugar. Stir gently until fully incorporated.
• Gradually fold in the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until there are no visible streaks of flour.

Step 6: Pour the Batter and Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
• If the cake starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cooling the Cake

• Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
• Carefully transfer the cake to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and ensures the best texture.

Once cooled, your chocolate orange almond cake is ready to enjoy. In the next section, we’ll go over expert tips to make sure your cake turns out perfect every time.

Expert Tips for a Perfect Cake

To ensure your Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked, keep these expert tips in mind:

Use High-Quality Ingredients

• Choose good-quality dark chocolate (70% or higher cocoa content) for a rich, deep flavor.
• Use fresh oranges for zest and juice—bottled orange juice won’t provide the same aroma.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing can make the cake dense and dry. Stir gently until just combined.

Check for Doneness Correctly

• The cake is ready when a skewer inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Avoid overbaking—this cake should remain moist inside.

Cool the Cake Properly

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.
• Cooling on a wire rack prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.

Enhance the Flavor

• For extra citrusy flavor, brush the cake with a light orange syrup while it’s warm.
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate ganache for a beautiful finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go wrong if certain steps are overlooked. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making your Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe:

1. Using Low-Quality Chocolate

Since chocolate is the star ingredient, using low-quality or overly sweet chocolate can affect the flavor. Always go for 70% cocoa or higher for the best results.

2. Skipping the Orange Zest

The zest is what gives this cake its signature citrus aroma. Don’t skip it, and always use fresh oranges for zesting.

3. Overmixing the Batter

Mixing too much after adding the flour can lead to a dense and tough cake. Fold gently until just combined.

4. Overbaking

Baking too long dries out the cake. Check for doneness at the 35-minute mark by inserting a skewer—if it comes out with a few crumbs, the cake is done.

5. Not Letting the Cake Cool Properly

Removing the cake from the pan too soon can cause it to break apart, while cooling it too long in the pan may make the bottom soggy. Let it sit for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer it to a wire rack.

My Experience Preparing This Cake with Chef Emma

Baking has always been a passion of mine, but making this Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe with Chef Emma was an experience that took my skills to the next level. Under her guidance, I learned the small yet crucial details that elevate a good cake into a great one.

The Importance of Ingredient Selection

One of the first things Chef Emma emphasized was the quality of ingredients. I used to think that any chocolate would work, but she made me realize how much high-quality dark chocolate enhances the richness of the cake. She also insisted on using freshly grated orange zest instead of store-bought extracts for a more natural citrus aroma.

Mastering the Mixing Technique

Before this, I had a habit of overmixing the batter, which sometimes led to a dense texture. Chef Emma showed me how to gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring the cake stayed light and moist. She also taught me the trick of beating eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy to add extra airiness to the cake.

The Secret to a Perfect Bake

One of the biggest game-changers was her tip on checking for doneness. Instead of relying only on a skewer test, she suggested gently pressing the center of the cake—if it springs back, it’s done. She also recommended baking at 170°C (340°F) instead of 180°C (350°F) to ensure a slow, even bake that prevents dryness.

Final Touches That Make a Difference

After taking the cake out of the oven, Chef Emma suggested brushing a light orange syrup over the warm cake. This enhanced the citrus flavor and added extra moisture, making the cake incredibly soft and aromatic. We finished it with a dusting of powdered sugar and some toasted almond slices for a beautiful presentation.

Baking this cake with Chef Emma was more than just following a recipe—it was about learning techniques that make every bake better. Now, every time I make this cake, I remember her valuable lessons and the joy of perfecting a simple yet elegant dessert.

Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe

A rich, moist cake made with dark chocolate, fresh orange zest, and almonds. This recipe creates a bakery-style cake with deep chocolate flavor and a citrusy twist, perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine European

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

• 200 g dark chocolate 70% cocoa or higher
• 150 g unsalted butter or dairy-free alternative
• 180 g granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs or 4 flax eggs for vegan option
• 100 g all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
• 80 g ground almonds
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Zest of 2 fresh oranges
• 50 ml fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

• 50 g chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
• Toasted almond slices for topping
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder for extra richness

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease an 8-inch or 9-inch cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
• Melt the chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method). Stir until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice, then mix well.
• In a separate bowl, sift together flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
• Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, stirring gently until fully combined.
• Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until no flour streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.
• Pour batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
• Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate ganache before serving.

Storage Instructions:

• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days (bring to room temperature before serving).
• Freeze for up to 3 months (wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil).

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or black tea.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
• Garnish with fresh berries or orange slices.

Keyword Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe

Serving Suggestions

This Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can make it even more indulgent. Here are some serving ideas to enhance your dessert experience:

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar

A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and highlights the citrus notes.

2. Drizzle with Chocolate Ganache

For an extra dose of chocolate, drizzle the cake with a smooth dark chocolate ganache or a light orange-infused glaze.

3. Serve with Fresh Fruits

Pair the cake with fresh berries, orange slices, or pomegranate seeds for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

4. Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

Serve warm cake with a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or orange sorbet for a perfect balance of flavors.

5. Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

The cake pairs beautifully with a cup of espresso, cappuccino, or black tea, complementing its deep chocolatey taste. Want another great pairing? Try this Coffee Cake Recipe for a delightful dessert duo!

Storage & Shelf Life

To keep your Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage tips:

Room Temperature (1–2 Days)

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Refrigeration (Up to 5 Days)

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to five days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Freezing (Up to 3 Months)

• Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs About Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe

Conclusion

The Prolific Oven Chocolate Orange Almond Cake Recipe is a perfect blend of rich chocolate, zesty orange, and nutty almonds, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress.

With its moist texture, deep flavors, and simple preparation, this recipe is easy enough for beginners yet refined enough for experienced bakers. By following the tips from Chef Emma, using high-quality ingredients, and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve a bakery-style cake in your own kitchen.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to start baking. Try this recipe, experiment with different toppings, and enjoy a slice of this decadent dessert with your favorite drink. Happy baking!