Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake
A delightful dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with creamy orange cheesecake layers, topped with decadent ganache.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
- 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.75 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk Can substitute with milk and vinegar
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) softened cream cheese
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Ganache
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla to the dry mixture and beat on medium speed until smooth.
- Stir in the hot water until smooth.
- Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Making the Cheesecake
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
- Mix in the orange zest and vanilla, then add the eggs one at a time.
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the springform pan and bake for 40-45 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Making the Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream until boiling, pour over chocolate chips, and stir until smooth.
Assembly
- Place one layer of chocolate cake on your serving plate, followed by the cheesecake layer and then the second chocolate cake layer.
- Pour the ganache over the top, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt over the ganache for added flavor. For a more vibrant orange taste, stir in a few drops of orange extract into the cheesecake filling.