Description
This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake is a stunning showstopper made for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something rich, decadent, and citrusy. Layers of moist chocolate cake and zesty orange cheesecake come together in perfect harmony, topped with a silky chocolate ganache and hints of orange zest. It’s bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.
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Ingredients
For the Orange Cheesecake Layer:
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16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 tsp orange zest
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2 tbsp orange juice
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 large eggs
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1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
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1¾ cups all-purpose flour
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¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1½ tsp baking powder
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1½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ cup packed brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
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½ cup vegetable oil
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¾ cup hot water or brewed coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
For the Chocolate Ganache:
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8 oz (225 g) dark chocolate, chopped
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½ cup heavy cream
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1 tsp orange zest (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Orange Cheesecake Layer
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
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In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
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Add sugar, orange zest, juice, and vanilla. Mix well.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in cornstarch.
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Pour into the pan and bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is just set.
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Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 2: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans.
9. In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
10. In another bowl, mix sugars, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
11. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, then stir in hot water or coffee. Batter will be thin.
12. Divide between pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
13. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to racks to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
14. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering.
15. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
16. Stir in orange zest if using. Let cool to room temperature to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
17. Level the chocolate cake layers if needed.
18. Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate.
19. Add the chilled cheesecake layer on top.
20. Top with the second chocolate cake layer.
21. Pour ganache over the top, spreading gently with a spatula. Let it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
22. Chill for at least 1 hour before slicing.
23. Garnish with orange slices, zest curls, or chocolate shavings if desired.
24. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Chill Cheesecake Overnight – Ensures it holds up during stacking.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Helps everything blend smoothly.
Level Your Cakes – Flat layers make for a more stable, beautiful cake.
Don’t Overbake – Moist chocolate cake and creamy cheesecake are key.
Decorate Just Before Serving – Keeps ganache shiny and fresh.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (plus chilling time)
- Cuisine: American-European Fusion