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Dark Chocolate Orange Cake

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  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 10-12 servings 1x
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-Inspired / Modern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Dark Chocolate Orange Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich bitterness of dark chocolate with the zesty brightness of fresh oranges. Featuring a moist, fudgy chocolate cake infused with orange zest and juice, this indulgent treat is layered with a silky chocolate ganache and finished with candied orange slices. Perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving a bold, sophisticated dessert!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 2 tbsp orange zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) hot coffee or hot water

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

  • 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp orange zest

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Candied orange slices
  • Dark chocolate shavings
  • A dusting of cocoa powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat together sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Add buttermilk, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  6. Pour in hot coffee and mix until the batter is smooth and slightly thin.

2. Bake the Cake:

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  3. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

  1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
  2. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir gently until smooth, then mix in butter and orange zest. Let cool slightly before spreading.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thin layer of ganache over the top.
  2. Add the second cake layer and pour the remaining ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  3. Smooth with an offset spatula for a glossy finish.

5. Garnish & Serve:

  • Decorate with candied orange slices, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
  • Slice and enjoy this luxurious chocolate-orange dessert!

Notes

  • No buttermilk? Substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar (let sit for 5 minutes).
  • For extra orange flavor, add 1 tbsp Grand Marnier or orange liqueur to the ganache.
  • Storage: Store at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Find it online: https://homelandflavors.com/dark-chocolate-orange-cake/