Name: Chocolate Orange Ganache Cake
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup boiling water; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (for curd and ganache); 6 oz dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3 large eggs (for curd); 2/3 cup granulated sugar (for curd); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for curd thickening)

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Chocolate Orange Ganache Cake is a stunning layered dessert that marries the richness of dark chocolate with the zesty brightness of fresh orange. Featuring moist chocolate cake layers, a vibrant orange curd filling, and a glossy ganache glaze, this cake is the perfect blend of elegance and indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake stands out with its bold flavors and eye-catching presentation. The deep chocolate layers are balanced by a tangy orange curd that cuts through the richness beautifully. It’s an ideal choice for holidays, celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress with both taste and appearance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Whole milk
Vegetable oil
Fresh orange juice
Orange zest
Vanilla extract
Boiling water
Unsalted butter
Dark chocolate (for ganache)
Heavy cream
Eggs and sugar (for orange curd)
Cornstarch or flour (optional, for thickening curd)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Add eggs, milk, oil, vanilla, orange juice, and zest. Mix until smooth. Slowly add boiling water and mix until combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cakes cool completely.
For the orange curd, combine eggs, sugar, orange juice, and zest in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in butter and chill.
For the ganache, heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Assemble the cake by layering the chocolate cake with generous amounts of orange curd between each layer.
Pour ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Garnish with orange slices or zest if desired.
Chill for 30 minutes before slicing.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling and Assembly Time: 1.5 hours
Total Time: About 2 hours 40 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Orange Mousse Filling: Replace curd with an orange chocolate mousse for a lighter texture.
Candied Orange Garnish: Add candied orange peel for an extra decorative and flavorful touch.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend that works in cakes.
Extra Citrus: Add a few drops of orange extract to the batter for even more citrus punch.
Dark Chocolate Only: Use 70% cocoa or higher for an intensely rich experience.

storage/reheating

Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered. Allow it to come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Do not microwave to reheat, as it can alter the texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought orange curd?

Yes, but homemade offers a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake layers and prepare the curd a day in advance. Assemble and ganache the next day.

How do I get a smooth ganache glaze?

Use high-quality chocolate and let it cool slightly before pouring. A spatula helps guide the drip evenly.

Can I use orange extract instead of zest?

Yes, but use it sparingly. Zest offers a more natural flavor.

What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?

Dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) melts smoothly and balances the sweetness of the curd.

Do I need three cake pans?

No, you can bake in batches or use two larger pans and adjust the bake time accordingly.

How do I keep the layers from sliding?

Chill the cake between steps and ensure the curd is thick enough to hold its shape.

Can I use a different citrus?

Yes, lemon or blood orange can substitute for a unique twist.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Use full-fat coconut milk or a butter-milk mixture, though texture may vary.

How do I slice it neatly?

Use a hot, clean knife and wipe it between cuts for professional-looking slices.

Conclusion

Chocolate Orange Ganache Cake is a striking and delicious dessert that fuses two classic flavors into one unforgettable creation. From the moist chocolate layers to the glossy ganache finish, it’s an indulgent showpiece perfect for celebrations or a sophisticated treat.

Chocolate Orange Ganache Cake

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Chocolate Orange Ganache Cake is a layered dessert combining moist chocolate cake, zesty homemade orange curd, and a rich dark chocolate ganache glaze, making it an indulgent showstopper for any special occasion.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: European
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
Add eggs, milk, oil, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Gradually stir in boiling water until fully combined.
Divide batter among pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
For the orange curd: In a saucepan, whisk eggs, sugar, orange juice, and zest over medium heat until thickened. Stir in butter and optional cornstarch if a thicker curd is desired. Chill completely.
For ganache: Heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly.
To assemble, place one cake layer on a plate. Spread orange curd on top. Repeat with remaining layers.
Pour ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Smooth with a spatula if needed.
Garnish with orange zest or slices. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing.