Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake – Decadent Dessert Recipe

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The Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, tangy orange cheesecake, and a silky chocolate ganache. This show-stopping cake is perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a luxurious treat. The combination of citrusy orange and indulgent chocolate creates a flavor harmony that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe to make this masterpiece at home!

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange

For the Orange Cheesecake Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Make the Orange Cheesecake Layer

  1. Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the egg, sour cream, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until fully combined.
  4. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set.
  6. Let the cheesecake cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cooled chocolate cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
  2. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top of the chocolate cake layer.
  3. Add the second chocolate cake layer on top of the cheesecake.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until warm (but not boiling).
  2. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
  4. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens but is still pourable.

Step 5: Top with Ganache

  1. Pour the ganache over the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a decorative finish.
  2. Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly over the top of the cake.

COOKING Note:

  • For a deeper orange flavor, you can add a splash of orange extract to the chocolate cake batter or the cheesecake filling.
  • Ensure the cheesecake is fully chilled before assembling the cake to prevent it from breaking.
  • To achieve even layers, use a serrated knife to level the cake layers before stacking.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Garnish the cake with orange slices, extra orange zest, or chocolate shavings for a stunning presentation.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
  • Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a perfect dessert experience.

Tips:

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially eggs and cream cheese, are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
  2. Chilling Time: Allow the assembled cake to chill for at least an hour before slicing to ensure clean, sharp cuts.
  3. Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  4. Customizable Toppings: Add candied orange slices, nuts, or edible flowers to elevate the look of your cake.
  5. Make Ahead: The cheesecake layer and ganache can be prepared a day in advance to save time.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Baking Time: 1 hour

Chilling Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Slice):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of orange?

A: Yes! Lemon or lime can be used for a tangy twist, but the flavor will differ slightly.

Q: Can I freeze this cake?

A: Yes, you can freeze the fully assembled cake for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?

A: Absolutely! Dark chocolate works well for a richer, less sweet ganache.

Q: What can I use instead of cream cheese for the cheesecake layer?

A: You can use mascarpone cheese for a creamier texture, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?

A: Avoid overmixing the batter and bake the cheesecake in a water bath for even heat distribution.

Conclusion:

The Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake is a stunning combination of rich chocolate and refreshing citrus flavors. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the moist cake, creamy cheesecake, and luscious ganache. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or any celebration, this cake is sure to impress and become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy baking and indulging in this incredible creation!

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Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange

For the Orange Cheesecake Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream

Instructions

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
  4. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Make the Orange Cheesecake Layer

  1. Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the egg, sour cream, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until fully combined.
  4. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set.
  6. Let the cheesecake cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cooled chocolate cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
  2. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top of the chocolate cake layer.
  3. Add the second chocolate cake layer on top of the cheesecake.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until warm (but not boiling).
  2. Pour the warm cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
  4. Let the ganache cool slightly until it thickens but is still pourable.

Step 5: Top with Ganache

  1. Pour the ganache over the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a decorative finish.
  2. Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly over the top of the cake.

Notes

COOKING Note:

  • For a deeper orange flavor, you can add a splash of orange extract to the chocolate cake batter or the cheesecake filling.
  • Ensure the cheesecake is fully chilled before assembling the cake to prevent it from breaking.
  • To achieve even layers, use a serrated knife to level the cake layers before stacking.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hour

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Protein: 6 g

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