The Ultimate Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe

There’s something special about the mix of rich chocolate, zesty orange, and the malty depth of a good stout.

This moist chocolate orange cake recipe takes the classic flavour combination to the next level; the stout adds richness, moisture, and a subtle roasted cocoa finish that perfectly complements the bright citrus notes.

If you’re searching for cake recipes chocolate orange lovers will adore, this one is sure to impress. Inspired by our new Outland Choc-Work Orange Stout, it’s a decadent dessert for any occasion. Easy to make, beautifully balanced, and guaranteed to become a favourite.

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Serves: 10-12

Chocolate Orange Cake Ingredients

For the chocolate cake:

• 200g plain flour
• 50g cocoa powder
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 200g caster sugar
• 150g unsalted butter (softened)
• 3 large eggs
• 150ml Outland Choc-work Orange Stout (adds depth and enhances the chocolate flavour)
• 75ml orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 100g dark chocolate (melted)

For the ganache:

• 200g dark chocolate (chopped)
• 100ml double cream
• 50ml Outland Choc-work Orange Stout
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 tbsp orange juice (optional)

For chocolate orange cake decoration:

• Candied orange slices or grated orange zest
• Chocolate curls or shards

Chocolate Orange Cake Method

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line two 8-inch round cake tins with baking paper.
• Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and orange zest.
• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and baking soda.
• Alternate mixing the dry ingredients with the orange juice and stout, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
• Fold in the melted dark chocolate until smooth and glossy.
• Divide the batter between the tins and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
• Cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

For the ganache

• Heat the cream and stout together in a saucepan until just simmering.
• Pour over the chopped chocolate, let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
• Stir in the orange zest and juice (if using).
• Allow to cool until thickened but still spreadable.

Assembling the cake

• Spread a layer of ganache between the cakes.
• Cover the top and sides with the remaining ganache.
• Decorate with candied orange slices, zest, or chocolate curls.
• Chill slightly before serving for a clean, rich slice.

Tip: For an extra hit of flavour, brush the cake layers with a tablespoon or two of warmed Chocolate Orange Stout before frosting to keep the sponge moist and intensify the chocolate and orange notes.

This moist chocolate orange cake recipe is the perfect way to showcase our new Chocolate Orange Stout, balancing rich chocolate, fresh citrus, and subtle malt sweetness.