Welcome, dear readers, to one of my favorite spooky-season creations! This Orange Cream Cake with Chocolate Ganache is the perfect mix of nostalgic warmth and Halloween thrill. Imagine moist chocolate cake layers infused with a tender orange-cream frosting, crowned by a glossy, slightly ominous chocolate ganache drip—it feels like a celebration in every bite.
This cake is beginner-friendly, relies on simple pantry ingredients, and brings cozy, family-style vibes to your Halloween gathering. Whether you’re baking with little ghouls or surprising guests, it’s delightfully spooky without being fussy.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert / Cake |
| Prep Time | 60 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | About 12 slices |
| Calories | ~400 calories per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Cake Layers
- 1 box dark chocolate cake mix
- 3 large eggs + 2 extra large egg yolks
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Orange-Cream Buttercream
- 9 cups powdered sugar
- 3 cups unsalted butter (about 6 sticks), room temperature
- 2 teaspoons orange zest (optional, but so lovely!)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3–4 tablespoons heavy cream, to reach spreadable consistency
- Orange food coloring (to create a fun Halloween glow!)
- For the Chocolate Ganache
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional—for glossy drip)
- Black food coloring (optional—for ultra spooky darkness)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Make the Cake Layers
Preheat the oven to 325 °F (165 °C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together cake mix, eggs, egg yolks, milk, and melted butter until fluffy and smooth. - Bake & Cool
Divide batter evenly between pans. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool 5 minutes in pans, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the Buttercream
In a mixing bowl, beat powdered sugar and butter on low until combined. Increase speed to medium, then beat in orange zest (if using), vanilla, and enough heavy cream to achieve a soft, spreadable frosting. Tint with orange food coloring until you’ll dare say “spooky bright.” - Slice & Layer
Level the cooled cakes with a serrated knife so they’re flat. With a long knife, slice each into two layers—giving you four thinner layers for extra wow. - Assemble & Chill
Place one layer on your cake stand and spread about ½-inch of orange buttercream. Repeat until all layers are stacked. Chill in fridge for 30 minutes to help it set. - Crumb Coat & Finish Frosting
Apply a thin “crumb coat” of frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs. Chill for another 30 minutes, then frost the entire cake smoothly using the remaining buttercream. Chill again while you prepare the ganache. - Make the Ganache
Place chopped chocolate in a heat-proof bowl. Heat the heavy cream (with corn syrup if using) until just simmering. Pour over chocolate and let sit for 30 seconds, then stir until silky. Tint black if you want that extra edge. - Drip & Decorate
Let ganache cool slightly, then pour it over the top, nudging it gently to let drips fall down the sides. If you’re feeling festive, add candy eyeballs, plastic spiders, or orange candles.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Box mix shortcut: Using a cake mix makes this recipe extra approachable—great for when you’re juggling costumes, candy, and chaos!
- Chill strategically: Chilling between steps—after stacking, after crumb coat—helps keep edges clean and frosting neat.
- Color control: Adjust orange cream color by adding food coloring slowly—too much can make it taste waxy.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Recipe Variations
- Spooky Spice Swap: Stir ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon ground cloves into the buttercream for a cozy, autumnal twist.
- Mocha Madness: Dissolve a teaspoon of instant espresso in the milk used for the cake batter to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- Lightened Up: Replace some butter with ½ cup of greek yogurt and use a mix of powdered sugar and dark cocoa powder in the frosting for tang and lighter sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh orange slices around the base for that bright contrast.
- Serve alongside warm apple cider or sweet creamy hot chocolate to complete the cozy Halloween spread.
- A scattering of candy corn or mini pumpkins around the cake adds festive flair.
conclusion
I hope this Frightfully Delicious Halloween Orange Cream Cake with Chocolate Ganache brings you cozy baking joy—and maybe a little glimmer of childhood nostalgia. It’s surprisingly simple, yet dramatic enough to impress your spooky crew. Bake it with love, share it with family (or sneaky midnight snacking), and enjoy every cozy, chocolatey, orange-kissed bite. Happy haunting… and even happier baking!