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Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Ganache

A delightful fusion of chocolate and citrus, this Chocolate Orange Layer Cake features rich layers of chocolate cake and a tangy orange filling, topped with smooth chocolate ganache, making it a perfect treat for any celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder Use high-quality cocoa for better flavor.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1.5 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup hot coffee Can substitute with hot water.
Orange Filling Ingredients
  • 1 cup orange juice Freshly squeezed, strained for best flavor.
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 0.5 cups sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Ganache Ingredients
  • 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter Adds richness to the ganache.
Garnish
  • Fresh orange slices or candied orange peel For garnish before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Mix on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
  4. Carefully stir in hot coffee. Divide the batter evenly among the pans.
  5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Orange Filling
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Gradually mix in orange juice.
  2. Cook while stirring until thickened and bubbly, then stir in orange zest and butter. Allow to cool completely.
Ganache
  1. Heat cream in a saucepan until steaming. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
  2. Stir until smooth, adding butter for a rich glaze. Let cool slightly.
Assembly
  1. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread orange filling on top.
  2. Repeat with the second layer of cake and filling. Place the third cake layer on top.
  3. Pour ganache over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
  4. Garnish with fresh orange slices or candied orange peel before serving.

Notes

Consider adjusting the orange flavor or experimenting with different types of chocolate. Make-ahead friendly, bake layers in advance.