This timeless recipe combines the zesty, refreshing flavors of orange and lemon with the rich, indulgent taste of dark chocolate to create a delightful dessert that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing treat for a special occasion or just want something to enjoy after dinner, this sponge cake with citrusy notes and a dark chocolate drizzle will satisfy your taste buds like no other. It’s an easy-to-make dessert, but the results are so impressive that it will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.

The cake itself is incredibly light and fluffy, thanks to the delicate sponge fingers that soak up the refreshing citrus juices. The lemon and orange zest, combined with a hint of condensed milk and sugar, give the cake a perfectly sweet and tangy flavor, while the milk and dark chocolate add richness and depth. This dessert doesn’t just taste amazing—it also looks beautiful on any dining table, with its elegant chocolate drizzle and light, airy texture.

This recipe is sure to become a beloved family favorite, and once you try it, you will understand why it’s so timeless. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Sponge fingers: 300 g (11 oz)
• Orange juice: 100 ml (3.4 fl oz)
• Eggs: 2 pcs
• Sugar: 170 g (6 oz)
• Lemon: 1 pc (zested and juiced)
• Starch (cornstarch): 60 g (2.1 oz)
• Milk: 600 ml (20 fl oz)
• Condensed milk: 100 g (3.5 oz)
• Dark chocolate: 80 g (2.8 oz)

Steps

1. Prepare the Sponge Cake Base
   Start by soaking the sponge fingers in the freshly squeezed orange juice. You can do this step gently by dipping each sponge finger in the juice for a few seconds until they’re moist but not soggy. Line a cake pan with parchment paper and arrange the soaked sponge fingers to form the base of your cake. Set it aside for later.
2. Make the Citrus Cream Filling
   In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until they become smooth and creamy. This will create the base for your citrus cream filling. In a saucepan, heat the milk and condensed milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the milk begins to warm up, add the starch, mixing well to ensure it dissolves and thickens the mixture.
3. Add the Zesty Flavors
   Zest the lemon and orange, adding both zest into the milk and condensed milk mixture. Then, squeeze the juice from both the lemon and orange into the saucepan. Continue stirring, allowing the mixture to thicken into a creamy consistency. Once the mixture has reached a pudding-like texture, remove it from the heat.
4. Assemble the Cake
   Pour the citrus cream mixture over the soaked sponge fingers, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Allow the cream to cool and set for about 30 minutes. The cake will naturally firm up as it cools, giving you the perfect base for the dark chocolate drizzle.
5. Prepare the Dark Chocolate Drizzle
   While the cake is setting, melt the dark chocolate. You can do this by gently heating it in a microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, or by using a double boiler method. Once the chocolate is melted, drizzle it over the set cake in a decorative pattern. The rich, glossy chocolate will add the perfect finishing touch to your cake.
6. Let it Set and Serve
   Once the dark chocolate has been drizzled over the cake, let it set for another 15–20 minutes until the chocolate hardens slightly. Once everything is set, slice the cake into portions and serve. Enjoy the perfect blend of citrus, cream, and dark chocolate in every bite!

Prep Time

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time

• 30 minutes

Total Time

• 1 hour

Kcal (per serving)

• Approx. 320 kcal

Servings

• 8 servings

Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless

The combination of citrus fruits and chocolate in this dessert makes it both refreshing and indulgent—two qualities that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. The citrus notes from the orange and lemon bring a fresh and tangy element to the dessert, balancing the sweetness of the cake and the richness of the dark chocolate. It’s the kind of cake that feels celebratory but can also be enjoyed as an everyday treat, whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home.

The use of sponge fingers as the base makes the texture of the cake light and airy, while the creamy filling ensures it’s rich and satisfying. This contrast of textures—from the soft sponge to the smooth cream and the crunchy chocolate drizzle—creates a delightful eating experience.

Not only does this cake taste incredible, but it also comes together in just a short time, which makes it ideal for anyone who enjoys baking but doesn’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that will impress your guests and make them think you’ve spent hours preparing it. This versatility and simplicity are what make this recipe timeless—it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, and a true classic in the making.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Sugar: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg
• Sodium: 150 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! This cake can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The flavors will even have more time to meld together, which can enhance the taste.

Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate?
A: While dark chocolate works best for this recipe, you can substitute it with milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, less intense flavor.

Q: Can I substitute the condensed milk?
A: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace the condensed milk with regular milk or a dairy-free option like coconut milk. However, this will change the texture and flavor slightly.

Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, this cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and drizzle with chocolate before serving.

Tips for Making the Perfect Orange & Lemon Sponge Cake

• Sponge Fingers: Be careful not to soak the sponge fingers for too long in the orange juice. You want them moist but not soggy. Dip them quickly to maintain their structure.
• Citrus Zest: The zest is where the concentrated flavors of the citrus are. Make sure to zest both the orange and lemon before juicing them. This will give the filling an extra burst of flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: If you prefer a smooth drizzle, use a spoon to pour the melted chocolate over the cake. For a more artistic presentation, use a piping bag.
• Chill Time: Allow the cake to chill for at least an hour before serving to let the filling set properly. This also helps the flavors meld together more.

Storage Tips

To store leftover cake, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the cake, follow the instructions in the FAQs section, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

The Orange & Lemon Sponge Cake with Dark Chocolate Drizzle is a showstopper of a dessert that blends refreshing citrus flavors with rich, indulgent dark chocolate. Whether it’s for a birthday, a holiday, or a simple afternoon tea, this cake is sure to make a lasting impression. Its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and beautiful presentation make it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

The versatility of this recipe means you can enjoy it for any occasion, and its timeless appeal will keep it at the top of your dessert repertoire for years to come. The delicate sponge base, creamy citrus filling, and decadent chocolate drizzle come together to create a dessert that’s as memorable as it is delicious. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a masterpiece that’s perfect for any celebration.