Chocolate Orange Snack Cake

Name: Chocolate Orange Snack Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 box chocolate cake mix; 3 large eggs; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; Zest of 1 orange; Juice of 1 orange; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Sensations

I absolutely love making this Chocolate Orange Snack Cake for my family and friends. The combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange creates a flavor that’s truly irresistible. It’s super easy to whip up in about 30 minutes, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is worth every second. I guarantee it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for casual get-togethers or even a weeknight treat at home. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making every bite a delightful experience.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:21:35.893Z

When I first tried combining chocolate and orange in a dessert, I was skeptical. However, after the first bite of this Cake, I was hooked. The orange zest elevates the chocolate and adds a fresh element that makes it feel light, despite being a decadent treat. I recommend using fresh oranges for the best flavor.

This recipe is also incredibly forgiving; I’ve made it with different cake mixes, and it always turns out delicious. Just be careful not to overmix when you add the wet ingredients for the fluffiest cake possible.

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

Baking with Chocolate and Citrus

When you're combining chocolate and citrus, choosing the right products can make a difference. I recommend using high-quality cocoa powder for the chocolate cake mix to ensure a rich, deep flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur, like Grand Marnier, to enhance the orange notes. Just a tablespoon can elevate the flavors without overwhelming the cake, providing a hint of sophistication for adult gatherings.

The role of orange zest is crucial in this recipe, as it infuses the cake with a refreshing and fragrant quality. When zesting, make sure to use the outermost layer of the skin, avoiding the bitter white pith. I like to use a microplane for this job, which creates fine zest and maximizes both aroma and flavor in the final cake. Remember, the zest holds essential oils that are key to achieving that bright contrast to chocolate.

Cooling and Serving Suggestions

Properly cooling your cake is essential to maintain its texture. After removing it from the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to stabilize. Transferring it too soon can lead to crumbling. Once on a wire rack, allow for complete cooling before dusting with powdered sugar, which adds a lovely visual appeal and a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the cake's rich flavors.

For an extra special touch, consider serving this Chocolate Orange Snack Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess beautifully complements the cake's melt-in-your-mouth texture. For added flair, top each slice with a thin slice of orange or a chocolate shavings garnish. Not only does this enhance presentation, but it also doubles down on the citrus-chocolate theme.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful Chocolate Orange Snack Cake.

Ingredients

1 box chocolate cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
Zest of 1 orange
Juice of 1 orange
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to get started on this delicious cake!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly baked Chocolate Orange Snack Cake.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or parchment paper.

Mix the batter

In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until just combined. Fold in the orange zest and orange juice.

Pour and bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Your cake should be tender and fragrant, thanks to the wonderful combination of chocolate and orange.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add chocolate chips into the batter or drizzle a simple orange glaze on top once the cake has cooled.

Ingredient Storage and Substitutions

If you have leftover cake mix, be sure to store it in a cool, dry place. While it typically has a long shelf life, using it within a year ensures optimal taste and rising power. Alternatively, if you want to substitute, you can use homemade chocolate cake ingredients instead of a mix. A recipe with flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, eggs, and oil can yield similar results, but it will require careful measuring and mixing.

For those who prefer a healthier option, you can replace the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. This will slightly lower the fat content and create a moist texture while enhancing the sweetness of the cake. However, keep in mind that the flavor may shift, so consider adjusting the sugar content accordingly.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Orange Snack Cake is perfect for make-ahead preparation! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just wait to dust it with powdered sugar until just before serving to keep that layer fresh and lovely. If you want to extend its life, you can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to three months. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, so it retains moisture.

If you’re planning on serving the cake at a later date, consider slicing it into portions before freezing. This makes it super easy to grab a piece whenever a craving strikes without having to defrost the entire cake. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or pop it in the microwave for a quick 10-15 seconds to warm it slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While chocolate is delicious, you can try it with vanilla or any other cake mix you love.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ Is it okay to add nuts or additional flavors?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or almonds would enhance the texture and flavor of the cake. Be creative!