This Chocolate Orange Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert that blends deep cocoa richness with fresh citrus brightness. Moist chocolate sponge layers are paired with a silky orange custard filling and finished with glossy dark chocolate ganache, creating a perfectly balanced cake that’s indulgent yet refreshing. Ideal for celebrations, holidays, or when you want a bakery-style cake made at home.
Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with ganache Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee (or hot water)
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed, strained)
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz (225 g) dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh orange slices or candied orange peel (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in hot coffee (batter will be thin).
- Divide into pans and bake 25–30 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before assembling.
- In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Slowly whisk in orange juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat, stir in zest and butter. Cool completely.
- Heat cream until steaming (not boiling).
- Pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Add butter for shine. Let cool slightly before pouring.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread orange filling evenly.
- Repeat with second layer. Top with third cake layer.
- Pour ganache over cake, letting it drip down sides.
- Garnish with orange slices.
Health Benefits
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Made with cocoa, dark chocolate, eggs, and fresh orange juice, this cake provides antioxidants, vitamin C, and natural energy boosters when enjoyed in moderation.
