There’s something truly special about baking—the aroma that fills the kitchen, the anticipation of the first bite, and the joy of sharing a homemade treat. If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dessert, this chocolate-glazed orange cake might just be your new favorite. It’s moist, flavorful, and easy enough for even novice bakers to whip up. Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of milk
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 3 tablespoons of plum jam (or any jam you prefer)
- Rum and vanilla essence (to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet of baking powder
- ½ cup of oil or melted butter
For the Glaze:
- A few tablespoons of milk
- A small knob of butter
- Simple chocolate (dark or milk, depending on your preference)
Optional Toppings:
Coconut flakes
Ground nuts
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, egg, and milk. Mix well using a whisk or a mixer until the batter is smooth.
- Add the cocoa, jam, rum essence, vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in the baking powder and fold it gently into the batter.
- Finally, incorporate the oil or melted butter, mixing until fully blended.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking tray or line it with parchment paper. Pour the batter evenly into the tray.
- Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine a few tablespoons of milk, a small amount of butter, and your chocolate.
- Heat gently, stirring constantly, until the chocolate and butter are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Finish the Cake
- Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool slightly in the tray.
- Pour the warm chocolate glaze evenly over the surface of the cake, spreading it with a spatula if needed.
- If desired, sprinkle coconut flakes or ground nuts on top for extra texture and flavor.
Tips for Success:
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap the plum jam for other flavors like apricot, raspberry, or even marmalade for a citrusy twist.
Don’t Skip the Glaze: The chocolate glaze not only adds richness but also helps keep the cake moist.
Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Why You’ll Love This Cake:
This chocolate-glazed orange cake is the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. The hint of rum and vanilla essence elevates the flavors, while the jam adds a subtle fruitiness. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
So, grab your whisk and get baking! Let me know in the comments how your cake turned out, or share your own variations of this recipe. Happy baking!
