Go Back
–+ servings
Chocolate Orange Layer Cake

Ultimate Chocolate Orange Layer Cake for Every Celebration

This delightful Chocolate Orange Layer Cake balances rich chocolate with refreshing orange for any celebration.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Baked
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Batter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Ensure it's unsweetened for balanced sweetness.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index.
  • 1 tbsp baking powder Always check for freshness.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Always check for freshness.
  • 1 tsp salt Use fine sea salt for better blending.
  • 3 large eggs Room temperature eggs work best.
  • 1 cup whole milk Substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil Can be replaced with canola oil or melted butter.
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract Opt for pure vanilla extract for best results.
  • 1 cup hot coffee Hot water can work in a pinch if coffee is unavailable.
For the Orange Filling
  • 1/2 cup sugar Honey or agave syrup can be substituted but may alter the texture.
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch Can be replaced with flour, though it’ll need adjusted cooking time.
  • 3 large egg yolks Extra whites can be used if yolks are scarce.
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice Fresh juice is preferred for a bright taste.
  • 1 tbsp orange zest Remember to wash the oranges before zesting.
  • 2 tbsp butter Vegan butter works well for a plant-based option.
For the Ganache
  • 1 cup heavy cream Use full-fat cream for optimal results.
  • 8 oz chopped dark chocolate Choose high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 3 8-inch round cake pans
  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • wire rack

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them generously with butter or oil and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  3. Add the large eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until smooth and well-blended, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Gradually stir in the hot coffee until fully combined.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  6. Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. For the orange cream filling, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a medium saucepan. Stir in the freshly squeezed orange juice while cooking over medium heat.
  8. Heat the heavy cream until steaming, then pour over the chopped dark chocolate and stir until smooth to make the ganache.
  9. To assemble, place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of orange cream filling, then add the second layer. Repeat the filling process and top with the third layer.
  10. Pour the ganache evenly over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides, and garnish with fresh orange slices or candied orange peel.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 6gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Measure accurately and ensure room temperature ingredients for the best results. Allow the cake layers to cool completely before adding filling and ganache.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!