The Ultimate Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake Recipe

Sweet chocolate notes dance perfectly with zesty orange in this decadent layer cake that promises pure indulgence.

Creamy cheesecake filling nestles between rich chocolate cake rounds, creating a dessert masterpiece.

Delicate orange zest adds bright, unexpected complexity to each luxurious bite.

Careful baking techniques ensure a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Elegant yet approachable, this cake works magic for special celebrations or quiet weekend treats.

Chocolate and orange lovers will swoon over the sophisticated flavor combination.

Slice into this dream and savor every incredible moment of pure culinary bliss.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Create a showstopping cake that combines rich chocolate and zesty orange for a flavor combination that will impress family and friends at any gathering.
• Quick Baking Adventure: Mix and assemble this spectacular cake with simple ingredients and basic baking skills, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking for a delightful challenge.
• Versatile Celebration Treat: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or just a special weekend dessert that brings everyone together with its decadent layers and irresistible taste.
• No-Fuss Preparation: Streamline the baking process by using a chocolate cake mix and adding homemade cheesecake filling, saving time without compromising on incredible flavor and presentation.

Ingredients For Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Chocolate Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides rich chocolate flavor for the layer cake.
• Eggs: Help bind the cake mix and create a tender texture.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and helps create a soft cake crumb.
• Water: Helps blend the cake mix ingredients smoothly.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and creamy texture for the filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic warm flavor to the cheesecake mixture.
• Orange Zest, Orange Juice: Bring a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the chocolate cake.

• Heavy Cream: Adds lightness and volume to the cheesecake filling when whipped.

Steps To Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Workspace

Warm up the oven to 350F (175C). Generously grease two 9-inch round cake pans with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy cake removal.

Step 2: Create Chocolate Cake Base

• Chocolate cake mix
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Water

Blend ingredients thoroughly until the batter becomes smooth and consistent.

Step 3: Bake Chocolate Cake Layers

Evenly distribute the cake batter between the two prepared pans. Slide the pans into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check cake doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean. Remove cakes and let them cool completely at room temperature.

Step 4: Craft Creamy Cheesecake Filling

• Cream cheese
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Orange zest
• Orange juice

Beat the ingredients until the mixture becomes silky and well-incorporated.

Step 5: Whip Cream and Combine

In another bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks develop. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and fluffy filling.

Step 6: Assemble Layered Cake

Place the first chocolate cake layer on a serving platter. Spread half of the cheesecake mixture evenly across the surface. Carefully position the second cake layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining cheesecake mixture.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for a minimum of 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and filling to set. Slice and serve chilled for a delightful dessert experience.

Helpful Tips For Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Check cake doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother, lump-free cheesecake filling.
• Zest oranges carefully to avoid bitter white pith, focusing only on the bright orange outer layer.
• Fold whipped cream gently into cream cheese mixture to maintain its light, airy texture and prevent deflating.
• Chill the cake for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and cheesecake layer to set properly.

Tasty Twists On Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Zesty Chocolate Raspberry Fusion: Replace orange juice and zest with raspberry puree and fresh raspberry zest for a berry-rich flavor profile.
• Mocha Caramel Layer Dream: Infuse coffee extract into cake batter and add salted caramel sauce between cheesecake layers for deeper complexity.
• Nutty Chocolate Crunch Cake: Incorporate chopped toasted almonds into cheesecake mixture and sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top for added texture.
• Tropical Coconut Chocolate Sensation: Mix shredded coconut into cream cheese filling and garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical undertone.

Perfect Sides With Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Zesty Orange Wine Pairing: Select a crisp Moscato d'Asti with light citrusy notes that complement the orange zest in the cheesecake layer, creating a refreshing and harmonious taste experience.
• Chocolate Liqueur Companion: Match the cake with a smooth chocolate liqueur like Godiva, which enhances the rich chocolate base and provides a decadent after-dinner indulgence.
• Dessert Coffee Accent: Brew a creamy hazelnut or vanilla-flavored coffee that balances the cake's intense chocolate and bright orange flavors, offering a warm and comforting finale to the dessert.
• Champagne Celebration Pair: Choose a slightly sweet rosé champagne that cuts through the richness of the cheesecake while highlighting the cake's complex flavor profile with elegant effervescence.

How To Store Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

• Store cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other flavors.
• Wrap individual cake slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Let refrigerated cake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften the texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cake tough and dry.
• For best taste and texture, enjoy the cake chilled directly from the refrigerator. The creamy cheesecake layer stays perfectly smooth and refreshing when cold.

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake FAQs

• What makes the cream cheese layer special?

The cream cheese layer combines cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice, creating a tangy and citrusy filling that complements the rich chocolate cake.

• Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, you can experiment with other cake mix flavors like devil’s food or dark chocolate to enhance the chocolate base of the cake.

• How do I ensure the cheesecake layer is smooth?

Beat the cream cheese mixture until smooth and gently fold in the whipped cream to maintain a light, creamy texture without deflating the mixture.

• Is orange zest necessary for the recipe?

Orange zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor that enhances the overall taste, but you can omit it if you prefer a more traditional cheesecake flavor.

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake Recipe

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• Total Time: 2 hours 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent chocolate orange cheesecake layer cake merges rich cocoa with zesty citrus in a luxurious dessert. Creamy cheesecake layers and velvety chocolate sponge promise a memorable slice that delights you with complex, harmonious flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cake Base:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (240 ml) water

Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (16 ounces/454 grams) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 orange zest
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) orange juice
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

Flavor Enhancers:

(None in this recipe)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven to 350F (175C) and thoroughly coat two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick spray.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the chocolate cake mix with eggs, vegetable oil, and water until the batter achieves a uniform consistency.
3. Evenly distribute the cake batter between the prepared pans, ensuring smooth surface coverage.
4. Bake the cake layers for 25-30 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean and dry.
5. Remove cakes from oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature, which typically takes approximately 1 hour.
6. While cakes cool, create the cheesecake filling by whisking cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until achieving a silky, smooth texture.
7. In a separate chilled bowl, vigorously whip heavy cream until it forms sturdy, defined peaks.
8. Delicately incorporate the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, using a folding technique to maintain the mixture’s light and airy consistency.
9. Position the first chocolate cake layer on a decorative serving platter.
10. Carefully spread half of the cheesecake mixture across the first cake layer, ensuring even distribution.
11. Gently place the second chocolate cake layer atop the first, creating a beautiful two-tier dessert.
12. Generously cover the entire cake with the remaining cheesecake mixture, creating a smooth, elegant finish.
13. Refrigerate the cake for a minimum of 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and texture to set.

Notes

• Ensure cake layers are completely cool before adding cheesecake filling to prevent melting and maintain structural integrity.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother, lump-free cheesecake mixture that blends effortlessly.
• For a gluten-free version, swap regular chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Zest orange carefully to avoid bitter white pith, using only the bright orange outer layer for maximum citrusy flavor without bitterness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 462
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Fat: 33 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg