Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe
Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 52 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that masterfully blends rich chocolate with bright, zesty citrus flavors, then this Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe is going to blow your mind. It’s a show-stopping cake that pairs moist and tender chocolate layers with a luscious, tangy orange curd center, all encased in a silky chocolate ganache. Every bite is like a perfect dance between deep cocoa and vibrant orange, creating a flavor combination that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.

Chocolate Orange Layer Cake ingredients flat lay: all-purpose flour in a small glass bowl with a wooden scoop, rich dark unsweetened cocoa powder in a rustic ceramic bowl, granulated sugar in a clear glass jar, baking powder and baking soda in small white porcelain spoons, a tiny heap of fine salt on a white plate, two fresh brown eggs with shells intact, a glass bottle of whole milk, a small clear bowl of golden vegetable oil, a glass bottle of vanilla extract with amber liquid, a small bowl filled with bright fresh orange juice next to a cluster of vibrant orange zest curls, a steaming cup of clear boiling water in a transparent mug. Orange curd ingredients: fresh orange juice in a small pitcher, bright orange zest scattered artistically, fine granulated sugar in a petite bowl, four separated golden egg yolks in a white ramekin, six cubes of pale yellow unsalted butter neatly arranged on a wooden board. Chocolate ganache components: heavy cream in a measuring cup, glossy semi-sweet chocolate chunks on a slate plate, a small pat of butter on a white porcelain dish. All items arranged carefully and symmetrically on a clean light wooden surface with soft natural lighting, subtle shadows enhancing textures, pops of orange zest and chocolate contrast, shot styled with minimal props for a modern, inviting kitchen feel. overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1 this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this cake is simple but essential, as each plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the rich cocoa powder that deepens the chocolate flavor to the fresh orange juice and zest that brighten every bite, these components come together beautifully.

  • All-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure and ensures a tender crumb.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor and rich color.
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with moisture retention.
  • Baking powder and baking soda: Give the cake a light, airy texture by helping it rise perfectly.
  • Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
  • Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
  • Whole milk: Adds moisture and tenderness.
  • Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
  • Fresh orange juice and zest: Give the cake its signature citrus zing and aroma.
  • Boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor and creates a smooth batter.
  • For the orange curd – fresh orange juice and zest: Provide brightness and a burst of citrus flavor in the filling.
  • Granulated sugar (for curd): Balances the tartness of the oranges.
  • Egg yolks: Thicken the curd and give it that silky richness.
  • Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess to the curd and ganache.
  • Heavy cream: Creates the decadent chocolate ganache frosting.
  • Semi-sweet chocolate: Offers a perfectly balanced chocolate coating.
  • Butter (optional for ganache): Adds extra shine and smoothness to the frosting.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping two 8-inch round cake pans with grease and parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then add in the eggs, milk, oil, vanilla, fresh orange juice, and zest. Beat everything together until smooth and silky. Slowly stir in the boiling water; this thins the batter but is key to intensifying the chocolate flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your two prepared pans and pop them in the oven. Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake layers to cool completely so they don’t melt the luscious curd you’ll add later.

Step 3: Make the Orange Curd

While your cakes cool, it’s time to whip up the vibrant orange curd. Combine fresh orange juice, zest, sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk the mixture constantly to avoid curdling as it thickens over 6 to 8 minutes—patience here pays off with that creamy texture. Remove from heat, whisk in the buttery cubes until smooth, and chill in the refrigerator to let it set.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream just until it simmers, then pour it over your chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, then stir gently until silky smooth. Adding butter is optional but recommended for a glossy, rich finish. Let the ganache cool slightly before you glaze your cake.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of the chilled orange curd on top. Carefully add the second cake layer to create the perfect sandwich. Finally, pour the chocolate ganache over the entire cake, smoothing it over the top and sides. Refrigerate briefly to let the ganache set before serving.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe, consider garnishing it with some delicate orange zest curls or some candied orange slices for an elegant touch. A sprinkling of finely chopped pistachios also adds a lovely crunchy contrast and a pop of color.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which helps balance the rich chocolate and tangy orange flavors. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, also make a refreshing accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, try layering this cake on a decorative glass cake stand or placing it on a wooden board with scattered edible flowers around. Alternatively, slice the cake into petite squares and serve them on little dessert plates with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a café-style treat at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake fresh and prevents the ganache from drying out while maintaining the vibrant flavor of the orange curd.

Freezing

If you want to keep the cake longer, you can freeze the cake layers individually before assembly. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before layering and frosting for the best texture.

Reheating

Because this is a layered cake with curd and ganache, reheating isn’t typically necessary or recommended. It tastes best served at room temperature or slightly chilled right out of the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make the orange curd ahead of time?

Yes! The orange curd can be made 1 to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to develop even more, making your Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe taste extra special.

Is it possible to use a different citrus instead of orange?

Absolutely. You could try lemon or blood orange for a twist, but keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile. The classic Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe really shines because of that perfect citrus-chocolate balance.

Can I substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives?

While the recipe relies on dairy for texture and richness, you can experiment using almond or oat milk for the cake and coconut cream for the ganache. The texture might change slightly, but it can still be delicious!

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The best test is to insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is done. Avoid overbaking to keep the layers moist and tender.

What’s the best way to cut the cake without smudging the ganache?

Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps you get clean edges and keeps that beautiful ganache intact when serving your Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe enough—it’s a beautifully balanced and delightfully impressive dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re treating yourself or stunning guests, its vibrant flavor and luscious textures will have everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy every delicious bite of this unforgettable cake!

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Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe

Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Orange Curd Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 52 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

A decadent Chocolate Orange Layer Cake featuring moist chocolate cake layers infused with fresh orange juice and zest, filled with tangy homemade orange curd, and topped with a silky chocolate ganache. This impressive yet approachable dessert beautifully balances rich chocolate and bright citrus flavors, perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a citrus-kissed chocolate treat.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1 cup boiling water

For the Orange Curd:

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for shine)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, fresh orange juice, and orange zest, then beat until smooth. Carefully stir in the boiling water until fully incorporated; the batter will be thin.
  2. Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow layers to cool completely before assembling.
  3. Make the Orange Curd: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh orange juice, orange zest, sugar, and egg yolks. Whisk constantly to prevent scrambling until the mixture thickens, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter cubes until smooth. Transfer to a container and chill in the refrigerator until fully cooled and set.
  4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. Optionally, stir in butter for extra shine. Allow ganache to cool slightly before frosting.
  5. Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick, even layer of chilled orange curd over the top. Carefully position the second cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with chocolate ganache, spreading it over the top and sides evenly. Chill the finished cake briefly to set the ganache before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a more intense orange flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon orange extract to the cake batter.
  • The orange curd can be prepared 1–2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Cake layers can be baked ahead and frozen, then thawed before assembly.

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