Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake Recipe

If you adore the perfect harmony of rich chocolate and zesty orange, this Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake will quickly become your new favorite treat. Moist, tender, and beautifully swirled with chocolate and radiant orange flavors, this loaf cake is not only vegan-friendly but utterly delicious and irresistibly easy to make. The addition of a luscious chocolate orange frosting elevates it into a show-stopping dessert or snack that friends and family will rave about. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon tea or a cheerful celebration, this cake offers a slice of joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake lies in its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor balance, and that inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. From the dairy-free butter that keeps it moist, to the orange extract that adds a bright citrus pop, every ingredient elevates this loaf into something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plain flour (250g): The base of the cake providing structure for the light, fluffy crumb.
• Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise beautifully, creating a tender texture.
• Bicarbonate of soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder to give the perfect lift.
• Cornflour / cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Adds softness and a delicate crumb.
• Caster sugar (300g): Sweetens the cake evenly without overpowering the chocolate and orange notes.
• Dairy-free butter, melted (150g): Ensures moistness and richness throughout the loaf.
• Dairy-free plain or vanilla yogurt (140g): Keeps the loaf tender and adds subtle flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Reacts with the baking soda to give a lovely rise and crumb.
• Dairy-free milk (150ml): Adds moisture and smoothness to the batter.
• Cocoa powder (2 tablespoons): Adds deep, intense chocolate flavor to half of the batter.
• Orange flavoring (1/2 tablespoon): Brings that bright, citrus zing which perfects the chocolate pairing wonderfully.
• Dairy-free block butter, softened (70g): For the decadent chocolate frosting that tops the cake.
• Cocoa powder (20g) for frosting: Gives the icing its rich chocolate taste.
• Icing sugar (100g): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the right consistency.
• Fresh orange zest: Adds a pretty garnish and bursts of fresh citrus aroma.

How to Make Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Loaf Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 160°C fan. Line your loaf tin with greaseproof paper or a paper liner to prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to lift out later. This simple setup helps ensure your loaf bakes evenly and releases cleanly — an important first step to a beautifully presented cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cornflour, and caster sugar. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures the raising agents and sugar are evenly distributed. It’s a quick step but critical for that perfect cake rise and balanced sweetness.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Divide Batter

Add the melted dairy-free butter, yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and dairy-free milk to the dry ingredients. Whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Then divide the mixture evenly into two bowls – one will become the chocolate part, the other the orange.

Step 4: Flavor the Two Batters

To one bowl, add the cocoa powder and mix until fully incorporated for a rich chocolatey batter. To the other, add the orange flavoring, stirring gently to weave in that citrus brightness. This division and flavoring create the distinct yet harmonious swirl effect in your loaf.

Step 5: Layer and Swirl Your Batter

Alternately spoon the chocolate and orange batter into your prepared tin. Using a skewer or toothpick, gently swirl the batters together to create a lovely marbled effect without overmixing. This step combines artistry with technique, giving you that signature look and flavor fusion of the Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake.

Step 6: Add Butter Strip and Bake

Place a strip of vegan butter on top of the batter—this trick encourages the classic ‘crack’ down the center as it bakes, giving your cake an inviting rustic appearance. Pop the loaf in the middle of the oven and bake for around 60 minutes. Check at 50 minutes to ensure the top isn’t browning too quickly. It’s ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Frost Your Loaf

Once baked, let the loaf cool fully in the tin. Use the paper liner to carefully lift the cake out. For the frosting, whip the softened dairy-free butter until creamy, then sift in cocoa powder and icing sugar. Whip until light and fluffy, adding a splash of dairy-free milk if needed to achieve a smooth consistency. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled loaf and finish with fresh orange zest for that gorgeous, fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake

Garnishes

The fresh orange zest sprinkled on top adds an inviting aroma and cheerful bursts of citrus that highlight the cake’s flavors. You can also dust a little cocoa powder or add thin candied orange slices for an extra special presentation. These simple touches make serving feel effortless yet elegant.

Side Dishes

This loaf shines alongside a cup of strong black coffee or herbal tea which balances the sweetness and complements the chocolate and orange. For a refreshing twist, serve with a dollop of vegan coconut cream or a few fresh berries to brighten each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the loaf into thick, generous pieces and serve on rustic wooden boards for a casual gathering. For festive occasions, arrange slices in a layered cake stand or alongside vegan vanilla ice cream. You can even toast slices lightly and spread with the chocolate frosting for a warm, gooey treat that feels ultra indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays moist and flavorsome best within 3 days. If you’re not frosting the cake yet, it can live happily at room temperature for up to 3 days, perfect if you like to frost right before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the loaf either unfrosted or frosted. Wrap it tightly in cling film and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It freezes well for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

If you want a slice warm and cozy, simply microwave it for 15-20 seconds or warm gently in an oven at a low temperature. Reheating enhances that melt-in-the-mouth texture and brings the chocolate orange fragrance back to life. Just be careful not to overheat the frosting or it may soften excessively.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of dairy-free butter?

This recipe is designed to be fully vegan, so dairy-free butter keeps the cake plant-based while maintaining richness and moisture. However, you can substitute regular butter if you’re not vegan, but it won’t be dairy-free anymore.

Is it necessary to use apple cider vinegar?

Yes, the vinegar reacts with bicarbonate of soda to help the cake rise properly and develop a light crumb. You won’t taste vinegar in the finished cake, but it’s key for the perfect texture.

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of orange extract?

Fresh orange juice adds wonderful natural flavor, but for a more concentrated aroma and ease of swirling the batter, orange extract works best. If using juice, reduce other liquids slightly to keep the batter balanced.

How can I make the cake gluten-free?

Try substituting plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but it should still turn out delicious with the same fabulous flavors.

What’s the best way to get the marbled effect?

Alternately spoon the chocolate and orange batters into the tin, then swirl gently with a skewer or toothpick just a few times. Over-stirring blends the batters and loses the beautiful marbled appearance.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and joyous about slicing into a beautifully swirled, moist Vegan Chocolate Orange Loaf Cake. It’s a treat that’s perfect for any season and sure to brighten up your baking repertoire. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s fun, flavorful, and a wonderful way to share a little love with family and friends. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this delightful chocolate and citrus combo, it will quickly become a go-to favorite!