Decadent Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe

Indulge in a rich and moist chocolate orange cake that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe combines the luxurious flavors of dark chocolate and zesty orange. The velvety texture and intense aroma will make every bite a heavenly experience. With a hint of citrus and a luscious ganache frosting, this cake is a showstopper for any occasion. Prepare to wow your friends and family with this decadent delight!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 12 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
• Orange slices and chocolate curls for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. Stir in the boiling water, orange zest, and orange juice. The batter will be thin.
5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
9. Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
10. Stir the chocolate mixture until smooth and glossy. Add the butter and orange liqueur (if using). Stir until the butter is melted and fully incorporated.
11. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using it to frost the cake.
12. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of ganache on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining ganache.
13. Garnish with orange slices and chocolate curls if desired.
14. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set before serving.

Interesting Facts