Dark Chocolate Orange Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup dark cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup orange liqueur
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla extract until well blended.
4. Gradually beat in the flour mixture until just blended.
5. Stir in the orange juice, orange liqueur, chocolate chips and walnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
7. Bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• Dark chocolate and orange are a classic combination, originating in Europe.
• Adding orange liqueur to the cake batter gives it a unique and delicious flavor.
• The cake can be served with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.