Description
A rich and decadent chocolate cake infused with a refreshing hint of orange, perfect for celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (or 2 teaspoons fresh orange zest)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (or 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice)
- Orange slices for filling
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- Extra chocolate shavings and orange slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and orange extract or zest.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until just combined. Slowly pour in the boiling water and continue to mix until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the cream filling, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy. Beat in the orange extract or juice.
- To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cream filling over the top, then arrange a layer of orange slices. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the top and sides with the remaining cream filling.
- For the ganache, heat the heavy cream until it simmers. Remove from heat, add the chopped chocolate, and whisk until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then drizzle over the cake.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: chocolate cake, orange cake, dessert recipe, birthday cake, celebration cake