Grand Marnier Bundt cake topped with chocolate ganache

Grand Marnier Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache

Decadent, moist, and infused with citrusy sophistication, this Grand Marnier Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache is a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions. The rich orange liqueur adds depth and aroma to the buttery cake, while a silky chocolate ganache drapes beautifully over the top, creating a luxurious finish.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a milestone, this cake delivers bold flavor and stunning presentation with every slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant and impressive: Perfect for entertaining
Moist and flavorful: Infused with orange liqueur
Rich chocolate finish: Smooth, glossy ganache topping
Balanced sweetness: Citrus notes cut through the richness
Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day

Ingredients (serves 10–12)

For the Cake:

2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon orange zest
½ cup Grand Marnier liqueur
½ cup fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup sour cream

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream
200 g semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for shine)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 10–12 cup Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). This step is key for a soft texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in orange zest, vanilla extract, and the Grand Marnier liqueur.

Step 5: Combine Batter

Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the orange juice and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Pour batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Chocolate Ganache

Step 8: Heat Cream

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until just simmering (do not boil).

Step 9: Melt Chocolate

Pour hot cream over chopped chocolate. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add butter if using for a glossy finish.

Step 10: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.

Tips for the Perfect Bundt Cake

Grease thoroughly: Use butter and flour or baking spray to prevent sticking
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure even mixing and better texture
Don’t overbake: Check early to keep the cake moist
Cool before glazing: Prevents ganache from melting off
Enhance flavor: Brush cake with extra liqueur for a stronger citrus note

Variations

Orange glaze instead: Skip ganache and use a simple citrus glaze
Dark chocolate ganache: Use bittersweet chocolate for deeper flavor
Nutty twist: Add chopped almonds or hazelnuts to the batter
Alcohol-free version: Replace liqueur with orange juice and orange extract
Chocolate chips: Fold into batter for extra richness

Storage

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days (bring to room temp before serving)
Can be frozen (without ganache) for up to 2 months

Serving Suggestions

Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Garnish with orange slices or zest curls
Pair with coffee, espresso, or dessert wine
Slice thinly for elegant dessert platters

Final Thoughts

This Grand Marnier Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache is rich, moist, and beautifully balanced with citrus and chocolate flavors. The smooth ganache adds a luxurious finish, making it a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Perfect for celebrations or whenever you want to elevate your baking, this cake is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.