Delicious Orange Chocolate Layer Cake Recipe

Start by preheating your oven to 175 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Grease and flour two round cake pans, ensuring no sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and orange zest. Mix well, then gradually add to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the orange juice, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined, and then fold in the orange zest.

Pour the cheesecake batter into a prepared springform pan. Bake at 160 degrees Celsius (320 degrees Fahrenheit) for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then refrigerate until completely chilled.

Chop the milk chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Pour the cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes.

Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool slightly before using it to layer the cake.

In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and cocoa powder until well combined. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until smooth. Finally, add the heavy cream and whip until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Once all components are cooled, begin assembly. Place one layer of the cocoa sponge cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of the chocolate ganache over the top, followed by a layer of the orange cheesecake.

Top with the second layer of cocoa sponge cake. Use the chocolate cream cheese frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake. For a decorative touch, pipe additional frosting or add chocolate shavings and orange slices on top.

Chill the assembled cake for at least an hour before serving to set everything beautifully. Enjoy your delicious creation!