Chocolate Orange Bundt Cake with Glossy Ganache

Indulge in the perfect balance of rich chocolate and bright, zesty orange with this Chocolate Orange Bundt Cake with Glossy Ganache. The moist, tender crumb infused with fresh orange zest paired with a smooth, shiny chocolate ganache makes this cake an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply craving a decadent dessert, this recipe combines classic flavors with a stunning presentation that will surely impress.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Chocolate Orange Bundt Cake with Glossy Ganache is not your average chocolate cake. It boasts a luscious texture from the buttermilk and vegetable oil, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth. The orange zest adds a refreshing citrus note that cuts through the richness, making it delightfully balanced. Plus, the glossy ganache topping isn’t just for looks—it delivers a velvety finish that ties the whole cake together beautifully. If you love desserts that are both elegant and easy to prepare, this bundt cake will quickly become a go-to in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon orange juice

Prep & Cook Tools

• Bundt pan – for that iconic cake shape and even baking.
• Mixing bowls – a large one for dry ingredients and another for wet.
• Whisk and spatula – to combine ingredients efficiently.
• Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements make all the difference.
• Electric mixer or hand whisk – for smooth batter without lumps.
• Heatproof bowl – to melt chocolate and prepare ganache.
• Cooling rack – to cool the cake evenly after baking.

Chocolate Orange Bundt Cake with Glossy Ganache: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, then dust it lightly with flour. Tapping out the excess flour helps your cake release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and cocoa for a consistent crumb.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk 3 large eggs with 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Then add 1 cup vegetable oil, 1 cup buttermilk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and the zest of 1 orange. Mix well to blend all the flavors.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cake tender. Then, carefully pour in 1 cup boiling water while stirring slowly. The hot water intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a beautifully moist texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Glossy Ganache

While the cake cools, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over 8 ounces chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy. Stir in 1 tablespoon orange juice to enhance the citrus notes.

Step 7: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional orange zest or chocolate shavings.

Better Choices & Swaps

• Replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist.
• Use almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice instead of buttermilk.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer ganache.
• For a nutty flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds or walnuts to the batter.
• Try adding a teaspoon of orange liqueur to the ganache for an adult version of the cake.

Cook’s Notes

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to help them blend smoothly.
• Don’t skip the boiling water step—it’s key for a moist crumb and deep chocolate flavor.
• Be gentle when mixing the batter; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• To get a shiny ganache, avoid stirring too vigorously once the chocolate and cream are combined.
• The zest of one orange adds a fresh brightness—feel free to add a little more if you love citrus.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Store any leftover cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. When refrigerated, allow the cake to come back to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze the cake (without ganache) for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and add ganache fresh before serving.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I make this cake without a bundt pan?

Absolutely! You can bake this cake in a regular 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. Just adjust the baking time accordingly; a larger surface area means less time in the oven. Check doneness with a toothpick starting around 35 minutes.

How do I get my ganache super glossy?

The key to a glossy ganache is using the right ratio of cream to chocolate and stirring gently after combining. Be sure the cream is hot but not boiling, and allow the ganache to sit for a couple of minutes before stirring. Adding a small amount of orange juice also helps give it that beautiful sheen.

Can I use fresh orange juice instead of orange zest?

While orange zest provides the most concentrated citrus flavor and aroma, fresh orange juice in the batter can add moisture and a subtle orange taste. This recipe already includes orange juice in the ganache to complement the zest in the cake. For best flavor, try to use both.

Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk and lemon juice mixture, and replace heavy cream with coconut cream for the ganache. Use dairy-free chocolate to keep the ganache smooth and silky.

Weekend Projects

• Try your hand at the Chocolate Ganache Tart With Berries for a stunning dessert that complements this bundt cake beautifully.
• Bake a batch of Cranberry Orange Biscotti to enjoy alongside your coffee or tea with the same lovely citrus notes.
• Experiment with homemade orange marmalade to spread on slices of this bundt cake for an extra burst of flavor.
• Host a chocolate and citrus tasting party featuring desserts that highlight these classic pairings.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients, prep your tools, and dive into making this decadent Chocolate Orange Bundt Cake with Glossy Ganache. The combination of chocolate and orange is timeless, and this recipe elevates it with a tender crumb and a shiny, luscious ganache finish. Whether for a birthday, a weekend treat, or a festive gathering, this cake promises smiles with every slice. Happy baking!

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