Irresistible Chocolate Orange Traybake Recipe for Sweet Tooths

Indulging in a chocolate orange traybake brings pure moments of blissful delight right into your kitchen.

Sweet aromas will dance through rooms, tempting everyone nearby.

Citrus notes mingle perfectly with rich chocolate undertones, creating a sensational dessert experience.

Baking becomes an adventure of delectable proportions when combining classic flavor combinations.

Each slice promises a tender crumb bursting with zesty brightness.

Simple ingredients transform into something magical through careful mixing and baking techniques.

You won’t believe how easily this stunning treat comes together with minimal effort.

One bite guarantees instant smiles and requests for seconds.

What Makes Chocolate Orange Traybake a Classic

• The classic combination of rich chocolate and zesty orange creates a universally loved dessert that appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, afternoon tea, or casual gatherings, this traybake transforms ordinary moments into something special with its delightful flavor profile.
• Requiring just basic ingredients and straightforward mixing techniques, this recipe offers a stress-free baking experience that guarantees delicious results every single time.

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Traybake

• Flour: A key base that provides structure and texture to the traybake.
• Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the dessert.
• Oranges: Adds bright, zesty citrus notes and natural sweetness to the bake.

• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and create a moist, tender crumb.
• Vegetable Oil, Milk: Ensure a soft and smooth cake-like consistency.

• Sugar, Vanilla Extract: Provide sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Orange Zest, Orange Juice: Intensify the citrus character of the traybake.

• Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Help the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
• Salt: Balances and enhances the other flavors in the recipe.

• Chocolate Chips, Orange Marmalade: Can be used for extra decoration or topping.

How to Bake Chocolate Orange Traybake

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a cozy 350F and get ready for some baking magic.

Grab your 9×13 inch baking tray and give it a light coating of grease.

Then line it with parchment paper, making sure the paper hangs over the edges for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Whisk these together until they’re completely blended and free of any lumps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• Softened butter
• Granulated sugar

Cream these ingredients until they become light, fluffy, and almost cloud-like in texture.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

• Eggs
• Sour cream
• Orange zest
• Vanilla extract

Mix until everything is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Stir just until everything is combined – don’t overmix!

The batter should look rich and chocolatey.

Step 6: Pour and Spread

Transfer the batter to your prepared baking tray.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure it reaches all corners.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into the preheated oven.

Bake for about 25-30 minutes.

To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Decorate

Let the traybake cool completely in the pan.

Once cooled, you can add an optional orange-chocolate glaze or dust with powdered sugar.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares and serve.

This traybake is perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a cup of coffee.

Pro Tips for Chocolate Orange Traybake

• Grate orange zest carefully to maximize citrus flavor without including bitter white pith underneath.
• Toss chocolate chips in a light dusting of flour before adding to batter to help them suspend evenly throughout the cake.
• Fold ingredients together with a light hand to keep the cake tender and avoid developing tough gluten strands.
• Insert a toothpick in the center to test doneness – it should come out with just a few moist crumbs for a perfectly soft texture.
• Allow eggs and butter to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure smoother, more consistent batter incorporation.

Save and Warm Chocolate Orange Traybake

• Store leftover traybake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual slices or the entire traybake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for maximum flavor and texture preservation.
• Keep at room temperature for 1-2 days if serving soon, covering with a cake dome or loose plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes until slightly warm and soft.

Perfect Pairings for Chocolate Orange Traybake

• Pair with Citrus-Infused Beverage: Complement the chocolate and orange flavors with a zesty orange-flavored tea or a refreshing sparkling water with a slice of fresh orange.
• Enhance with Creamy Accompaniment: Serve alongside a dollop of vanilla bean whipped cream or a scoop of orange sorbet to balance the rich chocolate cake texture.
• Match with Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted almond slivers or candied orange peel on top to add a delightful crunch and enhance the dessert's depth of flavor.
• Create a Dessert Wine Experience: Enjoy with a small glass of Moscato d'Asti or a sweet orange liqueur like Grand Marnier to elevate the chocolate orange profile.

Recipe Twists for Chocolate Orange Traybake

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly option that maintains the cake's rich chocolate and orange flavor profile.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with mashed bananas or flax eggs, use dairy-free dark chocolate, and swap butter with coconut oil to create a plant-based friendly dessert.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and incorporate grated zucchini to maintain moisture while lowering overall calorie count.
• Nutty Enhancement: Fold chopped walnuts or almonds into the batter for added texture and protein, creating a more complex and satisfying chocolate orange cake experience.

FAQs

• What ingredients give this traybake its unique flavor?

The combination of rich cocoa powder and fresh orange zest creates a delightful chocolate-orange taste that sets this traybake apart from traditional chocolate desserts.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

• How do I know when the traybake is perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake – if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, the traybake is done. Avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist and tender.

• Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?

Absolutely! This traybake is straightforward to make, requires basic baking skills, and uses simple mixing techniques that are perfect for those new to baking.

Chocolate Orange Traybake Recipe

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4.9 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent chocolate orange traybake promises a delightful journey through rich, zesty flavors that dance on your palate. Moist chocolate sponge layered with tangy orange notes creates a perfect dessert companions will crave and cherish.

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Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) milk
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) freshly squeezed orange juice

Flavoring Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon orange zest (from 1 large orange)

Icing Ingredients:

• 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 tablespoons orange juice (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even heat distribution.
2. Prepare the baking tray by generously coating the bottom and sides with butter, then layer with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.
3. Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, sifting together to eliminate any potential lumps and create a smooth, uniform mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients until they become a creamy, homogeneous blend with a vibrant orange-infused aroma.
5. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently to maintain the airiness of the batter and prevent over-mixing.
6. Pour the silky batter into the prepared tray, using a spatula to spread it evenly and tap the tray gently to release any trapped air bubbles.
7. Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean and the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the traybake to cool completely in the tray for about 15 minutes before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang.
9. Once cooled, slice into neat squares and optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate glaze for an extra touch of decadence.

Notes

• Toast whole orange before zesting to intensify the citrus oils and enhance natural flavor depth.
• Swap regular flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or rice flour for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Allow cake to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, precise slices and prevent crumbling.
• Use high-quality dark chocolate with orange notes for an extra luxurious and sophisticated taste profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg