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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.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Preheat 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 flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  3. Add eggs, milk, oil, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Gradually stir in boiling water until fully combined.
  4. Divide batter among pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
  5. 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.
  6. For ganache: Heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly.
  7. To assemble, place one cake layer on a plate. Spread orange curd on top. Repeat with remaining layers.
  8. Pour ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Smooth with a spatula if needed.
  9. Garnish with orange zest or slices. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Replace orange curd with orange chocolate mousse for a lighter filling.
  • Top with candied orange peel for a decorative touch.
  • Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
  • Add a few drops of orange extract for more citrus intensity.
  • Use 70% dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
  • Store in the fridge and serve at room temperature for best flavor.

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