If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that perfectly pairs rich chocolate with the zesty brightness of citrus, then the Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This cake is a spectacular showstopper with moist, chocolatey layers infused with a fresh orange filling and topped with a luxuriously smooth ganache. Every bite is a fantastic balance of decadent and refreshing, making it an irresistible treat for special occasions—or simply whenever you crave a slice of pure happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients will set you up for baking success. Each one plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and luscious finish of this lovely cake.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base of our cake layers, providing structure and softness.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and a beautiful dark color.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping with moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute richness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Ensures a tender crumb and balances the flavors.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and enhances texture.
- 1 cup hot coffee: Intensifies the chocolate notes without overwhelming the orange.
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: The star citrus, adding zing and freshness.
- 8 oz dark chocolate (chopped): The key to our decadent ganache topping.
- Heavy cream: Mixed with chocolate to create a silky smooth ganache.
How to Make Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. This prep is essential for the cake layers to bake evenly and release easily, ensuring your final layers are perfectly shaped.
Step 2: Mix the Chocolate Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—these dry ingredients create the base flavor and lift for your cake. Next, add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is silky smooth. Finally, stir in the hot coffee gradually: this step unlocks the chocolate’s deepest flavor, making every bite luscious.
Step 3: Bake and Cool the Cake Layers
Divide your luscious batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake layers cool completely on wire racks to ensure the orange filling won’t melt when assembled.
Step 4: Create the Vibrant Orange Filling
To balance that chocolaty richness, the orange filling is pure magic. Combine sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and freshly squeezed orange juice in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens beautifully. Remove it from heat and stir in fresh orange zest and butter to add even more flavor and creaminess. This fresh filling brings a luminous pop of citrus that harmonizes perfectly with the chocolate layers.
Step 5: Make the Decadent Chocolate Ganache
The crowning glory of this cake is the ganache. Heat the heavy cream until it’s steaming, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for two minutes so the chocolate melts gently, then stir until smooth and glossy. This velvety topping not only looks stunning but adds richness that ties the whole dessert together.
Step 6: Assemble Your Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe
Now for the fun part! Place your first cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of the orange filling over it, then top with the next layer. Repeat until all layers are stacked. Finally, pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip decadently down the sides. Refrigerate the cake for an hour to set the ganache before serving.
How to Serve Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe
Garnishes
Keep your garnishes light and fresh to complement this flavor powerhouse. Thin orange slices, a sprinkle of grated dark chocolate, or a few fresh mint leaves bring brightness and elegance. A dusting of cocoa powder around the plate adds a professional touch that your guests will adore.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with fresh berries to offset the richness, or a dollop of whipped cream to add an airy contrast. A small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can also transform each forkful into a dreamy dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual cake slices with a drizzle of orange syrup on the plate or in pretty clear dessert cups layering cake with filling and ganache like a parfait. For an elegant party, mini versions in cupcake liners presented on tiered stands really steal the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe should be stored covered in the refrigerator. The ganache keeps the cake moist, and chilling helps the flavors meld even deeper. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep out any fridge smells.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake, but it’s best to freeze individual layers before assembling if possible. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw layers overnight in the fridge, then assemble with fresh orange filling and ganache for the best results.
Reheating
Since this cake is best served cool or at room temperature, reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer the ganache slightly softened, leave a slice at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving, and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
FAQs
Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
While fresh orange juice gives the best flavor and brightness, you can use bottled juice if needed. Just choose a high-quality, pulp-free version and try to avoid added sugars or preservatives for the most natural taste.
Is there a substitute for the coffee?
If you’re not a coffee fan, you can replace it with hot water or orange liqueur like Grand Marnier to enhance the citrus notes. Coffee intensifies the chocolate, but the cake will still be wonderful without it.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the cake’s structure light and tender.
How long does the ganache take to set?
Ganache typically sets within an hour in the refrigerator but can vary depending on room temperature and thickness. For best results, chill the cake for at least an hour before slicing to achieve clean cuts and a glossy finish.
Can I make this cake a day ahead?
Yes! In fact, making this cake one day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to bake this incredible Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe. It’s one of those desserts that feels like a celebration every time you slice into it, with flavors that never fail to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this cake’s rich, zesty, and creamy layers will win over everyone lucky enough to try it. Happy baking and enjoy every luscious bite!
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Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A decadent Chocolate Orange Layer Cake featuring moist chocolate cake layers infused with coffee, filled with a luscious orange curd, and topped with smooth dark chocolate ganache. Perfectly balanced with rich chocolate and bright citrus flavors, this cake is ideal for special occasions and chocolate-orange lovers alike.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup hot coffee
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Orange Filling
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Ganache
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- ¾ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare and preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes.
- Make the cake batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, then combine with the dry ingredients and mix until smooth. Gradually stir in the hot coffee, blending well for a moist, rich batter.
- Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cakes to cool completely on wire racks before assembling.
- Make the orange filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and orange juice. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat, then stir in the orange zest and unsalted butter until smooth. Let cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan or microwave until steaming but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes, then gently stir until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of orange filling over it. Repeat layering for the second and third cake layers, finishing with the top layer. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for an elegant finish. Refrigerate if desired to set the ganache before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the coffee is hot when adding to the cake batter to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- The orange filling can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the ganache for the best flavor and texture.
- Bring all refrigerated ingredients to room temperature before starting for better mixing and texture.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered to prevent drying out.
