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“A rich chocolate orange layer cake with moist layers, creamy frosting, and orange zest garnish.”

Chocolate Orange Layer Cake Recipe – Decadent Holiday Dessert Idea

This Chocolate Orange Layer Cake Recipe is a decadent twist on a classic dessert. Moist chocolate layers are infused with bright orange zest and juice, then stacked with creamy frosting for a flavor combination that’s rich yet refreshing. Elegant enough for holidays and special occasions, yet simple enough to enjoy at home, this cake is perfect for birthdays, festive gatherings, or indulgent family treats. A show-stopping dessert that balances sweetness with citrusy brightness.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine European patisserie, Italian-inspired
Servings 12 slices
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Two 8-inch round cake pans
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Zester & juicer
  • Serrated knife (for leveling layers)
  • Offset spatula (for frosting)

Ingredients
  

Cake Layers

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 ¾ cups sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • Zest of 2 oranges
  • ¼ cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Frosting (Buttercream or Ganache)

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (for buttercream) OR 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (for buttercream) OR 8 oz dark chocolate (for ganache)
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 tbsp orange juice

Optional Garnishes

  • Candied orange peel
  • Chocolate curls or shavings
  • Extra zest

Instructions
 

  • Prep Pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line cake pans.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt.
  • Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
  • Add Flavorings: Mix in vanilla, orange zest, and juice.
  • Combine Wet & Dry: Alternate adding flour mixture and milk until smooth.
  • Bake: Divide batter into pans. Bake 30–35 minutes. Cool completely.
  • Make Frosting: Prepare buttercream or ganache, infusing with zest and juice.
  • Assemble Cake: Level layers, spread frosting between, and cover exterior.
  • Decorate: Garnish with candied peel, chocolate curls, or zest.

Notes

  • Pro Tip: Use freshly grated zest for maximum flavor; avoid bitter white pith.
  • Variations: Add Grand Marnier or Cointreau for a boozy twist, or swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate.
  • Storage: Keeps 3–4 days refrigerated; cake layers freeze well up to 2 months.
  • Serving Idea: Pair with espresso or dessert wine for a sophisticated finish.
Keyword chocolate orange cake, citrus dessert, holiday baking, layered cake, showstopper cake