Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

There’s nothing better than Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake—a rich, moist chocolate cake layered with creamy orange cheesecake and covered in a luscious chocolate ganache. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you want to impress!

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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Decadent & Indulgent – The perfect blend of rich chocolate and citrusy orange.
• Two Desserts in One – A cheesecake and a chocolate cake combined!
• Velvety Smooth Texture – A creamy cheesecake layer between moist cake layers.
• Perfect for Any Celebration – A stunning centerpiece for birthdays and holidays.

Ingredients for Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

For the Orange Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
• ¼ cup sour cream

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ½ cup hot coffee or hot water

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter (for shine)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Orange zest or slices
• Chocolate shavings
• Whipped cream

Tools You’ll Need

• 9-inch springform pan
• Two 9-inch cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Whisk

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

Step 1: Make the Orange Cheesecake Layer

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, orange zest, orange juice, and sour cream until combined.
5. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the center is set.
6. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Layers

7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
8. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
9. In another bowl, beat sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
10. Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
11. Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
12. Stir in hot coffee or water until smooth.
13. Divide batter between the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
14. Cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

15. Heat heavy cream until steaming (but not boiling). Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
16. Stir until smooth, then mix in butter for extra shine.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

17. Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate.
18. Carefully place the chilled orange cheesecake layer on top.
19. Add the second chocolate cake layer.
20. Pour ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

21. Decorate with orange zest, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream.
22. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Berries – Strawberries or raspberries add a fruity contrast.
• With Whipped Cream – Light and airy topping.
• With a Cup of Coffee – Perfect with the rich chocolate and citrus flavors.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Chill the Cheesecake Completely – Makes assembly easier.
• Use Fresh Orange Zest – Adds the best citrusy flavor.
• For Extra Moist Cake – Brush cake layers with orange syrup before assembling.
• Let Ganache Cool Slightly – Prevents melting the cheesecake layer.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cheesecake can be made a day ahead, and the assembled cake stays fresh for 2-3 days in the fridge.

Q2: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes! Milk chocolate will make the ganache sweeter and less intense.

Q3: Can I use orange extract instead of zest?
Yes! Use ½ teaspoon orange extract for a strong citrus flavor.

A Decadent, Citrus-Infused Masterpiece!

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake is a rich, creamy, and luxurious dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just because, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Baking Time: 60 minutes

Chilling Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – 1 of 12 Servings)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 4g

Enjoy every rich, citrusy, and chocolatey bite of this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake! 🍊🍫🍰✨

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