Choc-orange crepe cake

Choc-Orange Crepe Cake layers delicate chocolate crepes with a zesty orange and ricotta filling, offering a delightful balance of richness and freshness. This visually impressive dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful treat for loved ones.

26 Dec 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp dry cocoa powder
4 eggs
2 cups milk (1% fat)
1 cup orange juice
2 tbsp orange zest
1/3 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar

Choc-Orange Crepe Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the fresh and zesty flavor of oranges. Layered with thin crepes, creamy ricotta cheese, and a touch of sweetened cream, this cake is not only visually stunning but also a treat for the taste buds. Perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping dessert, it's sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crepe Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the 3 eggs. Then add the milk, orange juice, and 1 tbsp of orange zest, mixing thoroughly.
- Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Set the batter aside to rest for at least 30 minutes.

2. Cook the Crepes:
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center of the skillet, tilting and swirling the pan to evenly spread the batter into a thin layer.
- Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the edges start to lift and the bottom is lightly browned. Flip the crepe and cook for an additional 1 minute until the other side is slightly browned.
- Transfer the cooked crepe to a plate and repeat the process until all the batter is used. Separate each crepe with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the orange juice (1 cup), 2 tbsp of orange zest, whipping cream, powdered sugar, ricotta cheese, and the remaining egg.
- Using a hand mixer or a whisk, blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Crepe Cake:
- Place the first crepe on a serving platter. Spread a thin layer of the filling mixture on the crepe, ensuring an even layer.
- Place another crepe on top of the filling and spread another thin layer of the filling mixture.
- Repeat the process, layering crepes and filling, until all the crepes are stacked.
- The topmost layer should be a crepe without any filling.

5. Chill the Crepe Cake:
- Cover the crepe cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.

6. Serve:
- Before serving, you can dust the top with a light layer of powdered sugar and garnish with additional orange zest for a beautiful presentation.
- Slice the crepe cake into wedges and serve chilled.

Creating a Choc-Orange Crepe Cake requires careful layering and a bit of patience, but the result is a spectacular dessert that is worth the effort. The blend of chocolate and orange flavors, combined with the creamy textures, makes for a unique and indulgent treat. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and watch as your guests savour every bite.

Choc-orange crepe cake FAQ:

What is the baking time for the crepes?

The crepes do not require baking but rather cooking in a skillet. Each crepe should be cooked for about 1-2 minutes on one side, then flipped and cooked for an additional minute on the other side until lightly browned.

How should I store leftover Choc-Orange Crepe Cake?

Leftover crepe cake can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3-4 days. It's best served chilled for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with alternatives like gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour, but this may affect the texture. Be sure to check that it measures similarly to all-purpose flour.

What can I use as a substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta cheese with mascarpone, cream cheese, or cottage cheese. If using cream cheese, consider thinning it with milk to achieve a similar consistency.

How do I know when the crepes are done cooking?

Crepes are done when the edges begin to lift, and the bottom is lightly browned. If they're too pale, they need more cooking time. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.

Tips:

- Ensure the batter is smooth and free of lumps for the best crepes. You can use a blender to mix all ingredients together if preferred.

- Let the batter rest for at least 30 minutes before making the crepes. This helps the flour to fully absorb the liquids, resulting in a better texture.

- Using a non-stick pan for cooking the crepes will make flipping them easier and prevent sticking.

- Make sure the crepes are fully cooled before assembling the cake to prevent the cream from melting.

- Zest the orange carefully to avoid the bitter white pith, and mix it well into the batter for an even distribution of flavor.

- When whipping the cream, make sure the bowl and beaters are cold to achieve the best volume and texture.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 290kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 1.94g
Sugar 27g
Fat 10g

Choc-orange crepe cake