Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache

Name: Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
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 (for filling); 2 tbsp cornstarch; 3 large egg yolks; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for filling); 8 oz (225 g) dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for ganache); Fresh orange slices or candied orange peel (for garnish)

Indulge in the delightful fusion of rich chocolate and refreshing citrus with this Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache. Each bite features a moist, velvety chocolate cake complemented by a luscious orange filling and a glossy chocolate ganache. The combination of sweet and slightly tangy orange elevates the decadent chocolate, creating a dessert experience that is both luxurious and refreshing. This cake is perfect for celebrations, birthday parties, or a weekend treat with family and friends. The inviting aroma of freshly baked chocolate paired with zesty orange will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table.

Ingredients

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake.
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor.
2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the bitterness of cocoa.
2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise for a light texture.
1 ½ tsp baking soda: Works with the acidic elements to leaven the cake.
1 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
1 cup whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and adds richness.
½ cup vegetable oil: Contributes to the moist texture of the cake.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with aromatic flavor.
1 cup hot coffee (or hot water): Deepens the chocolate flavor and provides moisture.
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed, strained): Provides the citrusy flavor and moisture.
1 tbsp orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor in the filling.
½ cup sugar (for filling): Sweetens the orange filling.
2 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the orange filling.
3 large egg yolks: Adds richness and aids in thickening the filling.
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for filling): Adds smoothness and richness to the filling.
8 oz (225 g) dark chocolate, chopped: The base for a smooth and rich ganache.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious texture for the ganache.
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for ganache): Adds shine and richness to the ganache.
Fresh orange slices or candied orange peel (for garnish): Beautiful garnish that highlights the orange flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined and aerated.
Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Gradually stir in the hot coffee or hot water until the batter is thin and smooth. This will enhance the chocolate flavor.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
For the orange filling, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the orange juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the orange zest and butter. Allow to cool completely.
For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until steaming. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy. Stir in the butter for extra shine and let cool slightly.
Assemble the cake by placing one layer on a serving plate. Spread the orange filling evenly over it, then place the second layer on top. Repeat with the filling. Place the last layer on top, then pour the ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Garnish with fresh orange slices or candied orange peel for a beautiful presentation.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: Approximately 450 per slice

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips: Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results. Allow the cake layers to cool completely before assembling to prevent the filling from melting.
Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Freeze the unassembled cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling.
Variations: For an added flavor twist, incorporate a teaspoon of almond extract or pair your cake with a raspberry compote alongside the orange filling.

FAQ

1. Can I use milk substitutes?
Yes, you can use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

2. How can I make this cake ahead of time?
You can bake the cake layers a day in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic, and store them in the refrigerator.

3. Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ganache ahead of time. Reheat gently before using if it thickens too much.

4. Is it necessary to use freshly squeezed orange juice?
Fresh orange juice gives the best flavor, though store-bought can work in a pinch.

5. How long does this cake last?
The cake will stay fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator or can be frozen for longer storage.

6. Can I add more orange zest to the filling?
Absolutely! Adjust the orange zest according to your preference for a stronger orange flavor.

Conclusion

Give this Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache a try for your next special occasion or family gathering! The delightful blend of chocolate and fresh orange is sure to impress and satisfy. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family, and enjoy the warm moments that come from baking together. Happy baking!

Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache

Print Recipe

Indulge in the delightful fusion of rich chocolate and refreshing citrus with this moist Chocolate Orange Layer Cake, featuring a luscious orange filling and a glossy chocolate ganache.

Author: hannah-reed
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

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 (for filling)
2 tbsp cornstarch
3 large egg yolks
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for filling)
8 oz (225 g) dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for ganache)
Fresh orange slices or candied orange peel (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Gradually stir in the hot coffee or water until the batter is smooth.
Divide the batter among the pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the cakes completely in the pans on a wire rack.
For the orange filling, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in orange juice and cook until thickened. Stir in zest and butter, then cool.
For the ganache, heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in butter and let cool slightly.
Assemble the cake by layering and spreading the orange filling. Pour ganache over the top and garnish with orange slices or candied peel.

Notes

Allow cake layers to cool completely before assembling to prevent the filling from melting. Adjust orange zest based on preference for a stronger flavor.