Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

Description

The Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines rich, velvety chocolate cake with a tangy, creamy orange-infused cheesecake filling. Each layer of moist chocolate cake is complemented by a smooth, citrusy cheesecake layer, finished off with a decadent chocolate ganache and a zesty orange glaze. This cake is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and indulgent, making it perfect for celebrations or as a special treat.

Origin

This dessert blends the beloved flavors of chocolate and orange, which have been paired together in European confections for centuries. The addition of a cheesecake layer adds a creamy, luxurious twist, combining classic cheesecake and cake-making techniques into a single irresistible dessert.

Instructions

For the Chocolate Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups sugar, ¾ cup cocoa powder, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, 1 ½ tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix 2 large eggs, 1 cup buttermilk, ½ cup vegetable oil, and 2 tsp vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gradually add 1 cup hot water and mix until smooth.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

1. Prepare crust: Grease the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix ingredients: In a bowl, beat 2 cups cream cheese with 1 cup sugar, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 2 tsp vanilla extract, and ½ tsp orange zest until smooth.
3. Add eggs and sour cream: Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, followed by ½ cup sour cream.
4. Bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared pan and bake at 160°C (325°F) for 40–50 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Let cool completely.

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1. Heat cream: In a saucepan, bring 1 cup heavy cream to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Make ganache: Remove from heat and stir in 8 oz chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Let cool until thickened to a spreadable consistency.

For the Orange Glaze:

1. Make glaze: In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup fresh orange juice, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp orange zest. Simmer over low heat until thickened slightly, then set aside to cool.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Layer the cake: Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a thick layer of cheesecake filling on top.
2. Top with second layer: Place the second chocolate cake layer on top, pressing gently to secure.
3. Frost with ganache: Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the entire cake, smoothing the sides and top.
4. Drizzle with orange glaze: Drizzle the orange glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for 2–3 hours before slicing to allow the cheesecake layer to set.

Tips for Success

• Chill the cheesecake layer before assembling to prevent it from spreading.
• Make sure the ganache is cool but spreadable to avoid it melting the cake layers.
• Let the cake cool completely before assembling to avoid melting the filling.
• Add orange zest to both the cheesecake and ganache for extra citrus flavor.

Recommendations

• Garnish with fresh orange slices or chocolate curls for an elegant touch.
• Pair with a light dessert wine or a smooth cappuccino for a perfect finish.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition (per slice, approx.)

• Calories: 500
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 25g
• Sugars: 38g
• Fiber: 3g