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Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache

A delightful fusion of rich chocolate and zesty orange, this Chocolate Orange Layer Cake is perfect for any special occasion.

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture, mixing until smooth.
  4. Gradually stir in the hot coffee or hot water until thin and smooth.
  5. Divide the batter among the three prepared pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
  6. Allow cakes to cool completely in the pans on a wire rack before removing.
  7. For orange filling, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a saucepan. Slowly add orange juice and cook until thickened. Stir in orange zest and butter, cool completely.
  8. For ganache, heat heavy cream until steaming, pour over chopped chocolate, let sit for 2 minutes, then stir in butter until smooth.
  9. To assemble, place one layer on a plate, spread orange filling, add second layer, repeat, then top with third layer and ganache, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  10. Garnish with orange slices or candied orange peel.

Notes

Make sure eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate cake, orange cake, layer cake, dessert recipe, holiday cake