Harnessing the irresistible allure of chocolate and orange, this Chocolate Orange Bliss recipe delivers a decadent yet surprisingly simple dessert experience that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is your shortcut to pure indulgence, offering a delightful flavor combination that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Key Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Bliss
- 200g dark chocolate, finely chopped: Aim for a good quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for the most intense flavor.
- 150g unsalted butter, softened: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- 150g caster sugar: This finer sugar dissolves more readily, creating a smoother texture.
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature: Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements both chocolate and orange beautifully.
- Zest of 2 large oranges: Use a microplane or fine grater to get just the orange zest, avoiding the bitter white pith.
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice: Adds an extra burst of citrusy brightness.
- 100g all-purpose flour: Sifted to ensure a light and airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: For a gentle lift.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Optional: 50g chopped candied orange peel: For an extra chewy texture and intensify orange flavor.
- Optional: For garnish: A dusting of cocoa powder, fresh orange segments, or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.
How to Make Chocolate Orange Bliss
Prepare to be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can transform into an incredibly moist, intensely chocolatey, and beautifully aromatic treat. This Chocolate Orange Bliss is not only a joy to bake but also a delight to devour, boasting a rich texture and a vibrant citrus zing that sets it apart. With a hands-on preparation time of just 20 minutes and a baking time of around 30-35 minutes, you can achieve dessert perfection with minimal effort.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan/325°F/Gas Mark 3). Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round baking tin with parchment paper. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring easy removal of your finished Chocolate Orange Bliss.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water (ensure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water), melt the finely chopped dark chocolate. Stir occasionally until it’s smooth and glossy. Once melted, remove the bowl from the heat and set aside to cool slightly, stirring in the softened butter.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and caster sugar until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or vigorously by hand. This aeration process is key to creating a tender crumb in your Chocolate Orange Bliss.
- Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. The aroma at this stage will already be intoxicating, a promise of the deliciousness to come.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.
- Fold in Chocolate Mixture and Candied Peel (if using): Gently fold the cooled chocolate and butter mixture into the batter until it’s evenly distributed. If you’re using candied orange peel, fold that in now as well. The batter will be thick and rich, a definite sign of the Chocolate Orange Bliss you’re creating.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be set, and the top should feel firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Let the Chocolate Orange Bliss cool in the tin for about 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cake to firm up and makes it easier to handle.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Bliss
You’ll fall head over heels for this Chocolate Orange Bliss, a fusion of deep, dark chocolate and zesty, bright orange that’s utterly captivating. This dessert offers a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile, far exceeding the simple appeal of a plain chocolate cake or a mere orange bundt. The magic lies in the perfect balance – the richness of the cocoa married with the vibrant citrus notes, creating a culinary symphony that’s both grounding and uplifting.
Not only does this recipe deliver an unforgettable taste, but it’s also incredibly budget-friendly to whip up at home. Imagine achieving this level of gourmet delight without the hefty price tag of a bakery treat! Plus, the optional additions like candied orange peel or a scattering of fresh orange segments elevates it from delicious to divine, adding delightful textures and an extra pop of flavor that will leave your guests begging for the secret. Don’t wait any longer – embark on this delightful baking adventure and create your own Chocolate Orange Bliss today!
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your delicious Chocolate Orange Bliss, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it should stay fresh for up to 2-3 days, ideally in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it will remain delightful for up to 5 days. Simply bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor and texture.
If you wish to freeze your Chocolate Orange Bliss, it’s best to do so before it’s frosted or heavily decorated. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake (once completely cooled) in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Frozen cake will retain its quality for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then let it sit at room temperature for about an hour to achieve optimal taste and texture. Reheating is generally not necessary, as it’s designed to be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Orange Bliss is a testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients to create something truly spectacular. Embrace the ease and joy of baking this delightful treat at home; your taste buds will thank you!
Chocolate Orange Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan/325°F/Gas Mark 3). Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round baking tin with parchment paper. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring easy removal of your finished Chocolate Orange Bliss.
- In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water (ensure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water), melt the finely chopped dark chocolate. Stir occasionally until it’s smooth and glossy. Once melted, remove the bowl from the heat and set aside to cool slightly, stirring in the softened butter.200 g dark chocolate, finely chopped, 150 g unsalted butter, softened
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and caster sugar until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or vigorously by hand. This aeration process is key to creating a tender crumb in your Chocolate Orange Bliss.150 g unsalted butter, softened, 150 g caster sugar
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. The aroma at this stage will already be intoxicating, a promise of the deliciousness to come.3 large eggs, at room temperature, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 large zest of 2 large oranges, 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, and pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.100 g all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 pinch salt
- Gently fold the cooled chocolate and butter mixture into the batter until it’s evenly distributed. If you’re using candied orange peel, fold that in now as well. The batter will be thick and rich, a definite sign of the Chocolate Orange Bliss you’re creating.50 g chopped candied orange peel
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be set, and the top should feel firm to the touch.
- Let the Chocolate Orange Bliss cool in the tin for about 10-15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cake to firm up and makes it easier to handle.