Orange Chocolate Celebration Cake

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350ºfF) and grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.

   Tip: Use a non-stick cooking spray for easy cake release.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

   Tip: Make sure to sift the dry ingredients for a light cake.

3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, allowing each egg to fully incorporate before adding the next.

   Tip: Use room temperature eggs for the best results.

4. 4

   Add the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.

   Tip: Use a high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.

5. 5

   With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the orange marmalade, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.

   Tip: Do not overmix the batter.

6. 6

   Melt the chopped dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly.

   Tip: Use a high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.

7. 7

   Fold the melted chocolate into the cake batter until well combined.

   Tip: Be gentle to avoid deflating the batter.

8. 8

   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

   Tip: Use a spatula to remove any air bubbles.

9. 9

   Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

   Tip: Use a toothpick to check for doneness.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven and let cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

    Tip: Let the cakes cool completely before frosting and assembling.

11. 11

    Dust the cooled cake with confectioner's sugar and serve.

    Tip: Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the cake for a smooth finish.