Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Layer Cake

Directions

1. Prepare the Orange Cheesecake Layer: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring that you beat well after each addition. This step is crucial for achieving that tremendous, creamy texture. Once the eggs are well incorporated, mix in the sour cream, orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, and vanilla extract until combined.

3. Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until the center is set. It should maintain a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. The chilling process enhances its firmness, making it easier to layer.

4. Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers: After the cheesecake has set, it’s time to create the chocolate cake layers. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. You can flour the pans as well to prevent sticking.

5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until evenly incorporated.

6. Add Wet Ingredients: Add in the whole milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth. Slowly stir in the boiling water, which helps to enhance the moistness of the cake. The batter will be thin, but this is perfectly fine.

7. Bake the Chocolate Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

8. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes have cooled and the cheesecake has set, it’s time for assembly. Begin with the first layer of chocolate cake on your serving plate. Spread a generous layer of heavy cream (whipped or fresh) on top, then place the orange cheesecake layer.

9. Add Another Chocolate Layer: Carefully add the second chocolate cake layer on top of the cheesecake. To finish, use the remaining whipped cream to frost the top of the cake. Optional: Garnish with additional chocolate shavings or orange zest for that elegant touch.

10. Chill Before Serving: Allow the assembled cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps meld the flavors together while improving the cake’s structure.

Continue reading on the next page 👇👇