Chocolate Orange Layer Cake with Rich Ganache

Welcome back to my kitchen Chef James here from Tiramisucake.com 👨‍🍳
If there’s one flavor pairing that never goes out of style in American baking, it’s chocolate and orange. This Chocolate Orange Layer Cake is rich, aromatic, and beautifully balanced: deep cocoa flavor meets fresh citrus zest for a dessert that feels both indulgent and elegant.

I first perfected this recipe while testing layered cakes for winter gatherings. Chocolate alone felt heavy, orange alone felt too light but together? Absolute magic. This cake quickly became a family favorite, especially around holidays and celebrations when you want something impressive yet comforting.

What makes this cake truly special is its moist texture and versatile structure. I rely on the same moisture principles I explain in my pillar article Decadent Chocolate Zucchini Cake techniques that guarantee soft, tender crumbs every time. You’ll also see how this recipe pairs beautifully with fillings like Easy Homemade Orange Curd or rich frostings like Best Chocolate Frosting Recipe.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a festive table, or simply because chocolate cravings hit hard, this Chocolate Orange Layer Cake is a guaranteed showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra-moist chocolate layers with bold cocoa flavor
• Bright orange zest adds freshness and aroma
• Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and celebrations
• Customizable fillings and frostings
• Beginner-friendly with bakery-style results

✨ Would you serve this for a holiday dinner or a family birthday?

Ingredients Needed

For the chocolate cake layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – provides structure
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – deep chocolate flavor
• 2 cups granulated sugar – sweetness and moisture retention
• 2 tsp baking powder + 1½ tsp baking soda – proper rise
• 1 tsp salt – balances sweetness
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – binds ingredients
• 1 cup buttermilk – keeps layers tender
• ½ cup vegetable oil – ensures moisture
• 2 tbsp orange zest – natural citrus aroma
• 1 cup hot coffee – enhances cocoa (no coffee taste)

For filling & frosting (choose one):

• Easy Homemade Orange Curd
• Best Chocolate Frosting Recipe
• Dark Chocolate Ganache Filling

👉 Pro tip: Use organic oranges when possible for stronger zest flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Layer Cake

1. Preheat & Prep
   Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
   Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, orange zest, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
4. Bloom the Cocoa
   Slowly pour in hot coffee while mixing this deepens the chocolate flavor.
5. Bake
   Divide batter evenly. Bake 28–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool Completely
   Let layers cool before assembling.
   👉 Chef James Tip: Wrap cooled layers in plastic and chill for 1 hour easier frosting and cleaner layers.

For perfect assembly, follow my full guide How to Make Layer Cakes Moist.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Festive version: Add orange liqueur syrup between layers
• Dairy-free: Use almond milk + vinegar instead of buttermilk
• Extra chocolate: Frost with Chocolate Sponge Cake Recipe frosting technique

🎂 Chef James’s favorite combo: orange curd filling + chocolate buttercream exterior.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store covered up to 4 days
• Freezer: Wrap unfrosted layers up to 2 months
• Reheat: Serve at room temperature for best texture

FAQs – Chocolate Orange Layer Cake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, layers freeze beautifully.

Does orange overpower chocolate?
No zest enhances, it doesn’t dominate.

Can I use orange extract instead?
Yes, but zest tastes fresher.

Best frosting for this cake?
Chocolate buttercream or ganache.

Can I make it two layers instead of three?
Absolutely adjust bake time slightly.

Is coffee required?
No, but it boosts chocolate flavor naturally.

(USDA food safety guidance: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/)

What to Serve With This Cake

• Classic Layered Vanilla Cake for variety
• Easy Orange Pound Cake for citrus lovers
• Festive Winter Desserts for holiday tables

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Orange Chiffon Cake
• Chocolate Sponge Cake Recipe
• Dark Chocolate Ganache Filling

Print