Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

Rich, vibrant, and unforgettable—this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake combines the bold decadence of chocolate with the zesty brightness of orange in a stunning dessert. With layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy orange-kissed cheesecake, and silky chocolate ganache, every bite is indulgent and refreshing. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or when you want to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Three Layers of Bliss – Chocolate cake, orange cheesecake, and ganache in perfect harmony.
Balanced Flavors – Deep chocolate meets citrusy brightness.
Showstopping Dessert – Gorgeous layers and glossy finish.
Make Ahead – Ideal for prepping in advance for special occasions.
Customizable – Use blood orange, dark chocolate, or even orange zest in the ganache.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• ½ cup hot brewed coffee (or hot water)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Orange Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp orange juice (fresh)
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• ¼ cup sour cream

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp butter
• Optional: 1 tsp orange zest for garnish

Optional Garnishes:

• Orange slices or curls
• Chocolate shavings
• Candied orange peel

Tools You’ll Need

• 2 8-inch or 9-inch cake pans
• 1 springform pan (same size as cake pans)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Offset spatula
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

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, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugars, oil, buttermilk, vanilla, and hot coffee until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just smooth.
5. Divide the batter between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Make the Orange Cheesecake Layer

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment.
2. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and cornstarch and beat again.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
4. Stir in vanilla, orange juice, zest, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
5. Pour into pan and bake for 40–45 minutes or until just set.
6. Turn off oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
7. Cool completely, then chill for at least 4 hours (overnight preferred).

Step 3: Make the Ganache

1. Heat cream in a saucepan or microwave until steaming (not boiling).
2. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes.
3. Stir until smooth, then add butter for extra shine. Let cool until slightly thickened but pourable.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate.
2. Top with the chilled orange cheesecake layer (remove from springform base).
3. Add the second chocolate cake layer on top.
4. Pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.
5. Smooth with a spatula and garnish as desired.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Chill for at least 1 hour to set the ganache.
2. Slice with a sharp knife and serve cold or slightly room temp.

Tips for the Best Layer Cake
Use the Same Pan Sizes – Ensures even layers for neat stacking.
Don’t Overbake – Check early for moist, tender cake.
Chill Cheesecake – It must be fully cold for stable stacking.
Level the Cake – Slice domed tops if needed for flat layers.
Use a Warm Knife – Dip in hot water and wipe dry between slices for clean cuts.

Serving Suggestions
With Whipped Cream – A light, fluffy contrast.
Alongside Coffee or Espresso – Enhances the chocolate and citrus notes.
With Orange Sorbet – A refreshing duo.
For Celebrations – A showstopper centerpiece for holidays or birthdays.
As Mini Cakes – Bake in smaller pans for individual servings.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Keep cold until ready to serve to maintain structure.

Freezing:

• Freeze whole (ungarnished) or slice and wrap individually.
• Store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating:

• No reheating needed. Serve chilled or slightly room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boxed chocolate cake mix?
Yes—save time by using your favorite mix, but homemade offers richer flavor.

2. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
Use a parchment-lined cake pan, but unmolding the cheesecake will be trickier.

3. Can I use a different citrus?
Absolutely—lemon, blood orange, or lime would be delicious variations.

4. Is this cake very sweet?
It’s rich and balanced. Reduce sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness.

5. Can I make it ahead?
Yes—each layer can be made a day in advance and assembled the day of serving.

Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and zesty. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to indulge, this cake delivers stunning layers and unforgettable flavor. It’s a true labor of love that’s worth every bite.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your layer cake creations.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4+ hours
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – 12 slices):
Calories: 490 | Protein: 7g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 32g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 300mg

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