Orange Chocolate Victoria Sponge

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease two 20cm sandwich pans.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and cocoa powder.

   Tip: Make sure to whisk well to combine.

3. 3

   Add the softened butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

   Tip: Be careful not to overwork the mixture.

4. 4

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and orange juice until well combined.

5. 5

   Add the orange zest to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.

6. 6

   Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.

7. 7

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

8. 8

   Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. 9

   Allow the sponges to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. 10

    Once the sponges are completely cool, spread a layer of chocolate chips on top of one of the sponges.

    Tip: You can also use a chocolate ganache or whipped cream if you prefer.

11. 11

    Place the second sponge on top and dust with confectioners' sugar.

12. 12

    Serve and enjoy!