Chocolate Orange Layer Cake (Print-Friendly Version)
Decadent chocolate cake layers infused with fresh orange zest and topped with luscious chocolate ganache.
# Ingredients Required:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 -
220 grams all-purpose flour
02 -
200 grams granulated sugar
03 -
110 grams packed brown sugar
04 -
75 grams unsweetened cocoa powder
05 -
1.5 teaspoons baking powder
06 -
1.5 teaspoons baking soda
07 -
0.5 teaspoon salt
→ Wet Ingredients
08 -
120 milliliters vegetable oil
09 -
2 large eggs
10 -
240 milliliters buttermilk
11 -
120 milliliters freshly squeezed orange juice
12 -
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
13 -
2 tablespoons orange zest
14 -
120 milliliters hot water
→ Ganache
15 -
240 milliliters heavy cream
16 -
225 grams semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
17 -
15 grams unsalted butter
18 -
1 teaspoon orange zest
# Detailed Directions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease and line two 20 cm round cake pans with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
03 -
In a separate bowl, beat eggs, buttermilk, orange juice, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and orange zest until combined.
04 -
Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir in hot water last until the batter is smooth.
05 -
Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool layers completely.
06 -
Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir in butter and orange zest until smooth and glossy.
07 -
Level cake tops if needed. Place one layer on a serving plate, spread ganache over it, then top with second layer. Pour remaining ganache over top, letting it drip down sides.
08 -
Allow ganache to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
# Helpful Advice:
01 -
Use freshly squeezed orange juice to intensify citrus flavor.
02 -
Bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing for optimal texture.
03 -
Ensure cake layers are fully cooled to prevent ganache from melting.