Easy Orange Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Picture this: a moist, citrusy orange cake crowned with silky chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. This orange cake with chocolate ganache combines the bright, zesty flavors of fresh oranges with rich, decadent chocolate in perfect harmony.

Here’s a fun fact – this flavor combination dates back to Victorian times when orange and chocolate were considered the ultimate luxury pairing! What makes this recipe truly special is its foolproof method and incredible results every single time.

Just like our popular lemon drizzle cake, this orange beauty is surprisingly simple to make and requires just basic pantry ingredients. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this showstopping dessert!

What is Orange Cake with Chocolate Ganache?

Ever wondered why we call it “orange cake with chocolate ganache” instead of just “chocolate orange cake”? Well, it’s all about the star of the show! The orange cake takes center stage with its vibrant citrus flavor, while the chocolate ganache plays the perfect supporting role.

Think of it as the dessert version of a power couple – each amazing on their own, but absolutely magical together. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake certainly proves that point! Ready to fall in love with this dreamy combination?

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Irresistibly Moist and Flavorful

This cake delivers an incredibly tender crumb infused with fresh orange zest and juice. Every bite bursts with bright citrus notes that dance on your tongue, while the rich chocolate ganache adds a luxurious finish that balances the tartness perfectly.

Budget-Friendly Homemade Luxury

Making this stunning dessert at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a fancy bakery. With simple ingredients like fresh oranges, butter, eggs, and quality chocolate, you’re creating a restaurant-worthy dessert without breaking the bank.

Impressive Yet Simple to Make

The combination of fluffy orange sponge and glossy chocolate topping creates a dessert that looks like it came from a professional pastry chef. Much like our beloved chocolate fudge brownies, this recipe proves that impressive doesn’t have to mean complicated. Why not treat yourself to some homemade magic in your own kitchen?

How to Make Orange Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Quick Overview

This delightful orange cake with chocolate ganache is surprisingly straightforward to make. The secret lies in using fresh orange zest and juice for maximum flavor impact, while the ganache requires just two ingredients for that professional finish.

Total Time: 2 hours (including cooling time) Prep Time: 20 minutes Baking Time: 35-40 minutes Cooling & Assembly: 1 hour

Key Ingredients for Orange Cake with Chocolate Ganache

For the Orange Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• ⅓ cup (80ml) fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons orange zest (from 2-3 oranges)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz (225g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra shine)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Orange Cake:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Lightly dust with flour, tapping out excess.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined – don’t overmix.
6. Bake to Perfection: Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before adding ganache.

Making the Chocolate Ganache:

1. Heat the Cream: Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer (don’t let it boil).
2. Create the Ganache: Pour hot cream over chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Gently stir from the center outward until smooth and glossy. Stir in butter if using.
3. Cool to Spreading Consistency: Let ganache cool for 15-20 minutes until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
4. Top the Cake: Place cooled cake on serving plate and pour ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides naturally.

What to Serve Orange Cake with Chocolate Ganache With

This stunning cake pairs beautifully with several accompaniments. Serve it alongside vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream to balance the rich flavors. A cup of hot coffee or black tea complements the chocolate perfectly, while a glass of cold milk appeals to younger guests. For special occasions, consider pairing it with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries, which add a lovely tartness that enhances both the orange and chocolate flavors.

Top Tips for Perfecting Orange Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and a tender crumb. Take eggs and butter out 1-2 hours before baking.

Fresh is Best: Always use fresh orange juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor. Avoid bottled juice as it lacks the intensity needed.

Don’t Overmix: Once you add flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough cake.

Perfect Ganache Temperature: If your ganache is too thick, warm it gently. If too thin, let it cool longer or refrigerate briefly while stirring occasionally.

Test for Doneness: The cake is ready when it springs back lightly when touched and pulls slightly from the pan sides.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store your orange cake with chocolate ganache covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week – just bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

To freeze, wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding ganache. The completed cake can be frozen for up to 1 month, though the ganache texture may change slightly upon thawing.

For reheating individual slices, let them come to room temperature naturally rather than using the microwave, which can make the ganache grainy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories	485
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	11g
Cholesterol	75mg
Sodium	245mg
Total Carbs	78g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	65g
Protein	7g
Vitamin C	8mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! The cake layers can be baked up to 2 days in advance and stored wrapped at room temperature. Add the ganache on the day of serving for the best appearance and texture.

What type of chocolate works best for ganache?

Use high-quality dark chocolate with 60-70% cocoa content for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Semi-sweet chocolate chips work in a pinch, but chopped chocolate bars give superior results.

Can I substitute the orange with other citrus fruits?

Absolutely! Lemon, lime, or grapefruit work wonderfully. Use the same amount of zest and juice, adjusting sweetness as needed since some citrus fruits are more tart than others.

Why did my ganache turn grainy?

This usually happens when the cream is too hot or the mixture is stirred too vigorously. Let hot cream cool for a minute before pouring, and stir gently from the center outward.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Add an extra ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t contain it.

How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

The cake should spring back when lightly touched, pull slightly from the pan sides, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.

Expert Baker’s Secrets

The Orange Zest Trick: Roll your oranges on the counter while pressing down before zesting. This breaks down the oil sacs and releases more flavorful oils.

Ganache Troubleshooting: If your ganache breaks (looks curdled), add a tablespoon of warm cream and whisk vigorously. This usually brings it back together.

Flavor Boosters: Add a teaspoon of orange extract along with the zest for even more intense orange flavor, or incorporate a tablespoon of Grand Marnier into the ganache for an adult version.

Professional Presentation: For clean slices, dip your knife in warm water and wipe clean between cuts. This prevents the ganache from dragging and ensures beautiful portions.

This orange cake with chocolate ganache is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy to every occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply treating yourself to something wonderful, this recipe delivers professional results with home-kitchen simplicity. Happy baking!