Orange Chocolate Cake

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease/flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.

4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

5. Mix in freshly squeezed orange juice and orange zest.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.

7. Stir in vanilla extract until just combined.

8. Divide the batter between the cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

9. Cool the cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Place chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.

2. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering, then pour over the chocolate.

3. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Add orange juice if desired and mix well.

Assembly

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and pour half of the Orange Chocolate Ganache over it.

2. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and pour the remaining ganache over the entire cake.

3. Allow the ganache to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing.