CHOCOLATE ORANGE CAKE
INGREDIENTS
For the Chocolate Cake Layers
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1½ tsp baking powder
1½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup hot water or coffee
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Orange Cream Filling
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2½ cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp orange zest
¼ cup fresh orange juice
A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
For the Chocolate Ganache
1 cup heavy cream
1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
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INSTRUCTIONS
1. Make the Chocolate Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three or four 8" round pans.
Whisk dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, mix sugar, eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Combine both and stir in hot water.
Divide into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes. Cool completely.
2. Prepare the Orange Filling
Beat butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar gradually, then mix in orange zest, juice, and optional coloring. Beat until smooth and vibrant.
3. Make the Ganache
Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 mins. Stir until smooth. Let cool slightly to thicken.
4. Assemble the Cake
Layer cake rounds with orange filling between each. Smooth sides if desired. Pour ganache over top and let it drip down sides.
5. Decorate
Top with orange slices or chocolate curls. Chill before slicing for clean layers.