Grand Marnier Cake Recipes for Delicious Desserts

Updated On: October 17, 2025

There’s something truly magical about a cake infused with the rich, citrusy notes of Grand Marnier. This exquisite orange-flavored liqueur adds a layer of sophistication and warmth that transforms a simple dessert into a celebration-worthy treat.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a birthday, or just to indulge yourself, Grand Marnier cake offers a perfect balance of moist texture and zesty flavor. In this post, we’ll explore several delightful Grand Marnier cake recipes that highlight the versatility of this beloved liqueur.

From a classic bundt cake to a light chiffon and even a decadent layered sponge, each recipe captures the essence of Grand Marnier in a unique way. You’ll find detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips to ensure your baking success.

Ready to impress your family and friends with a cake that’s bursting with citrus and liqueur goodness? Let’s dive into these irresistible Grand Marnier cake recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grand Marnier cake is a fantastic way to elevate your baking. The liqueur adds a vibrant orange flavor that is both aromatic and slightly sweet, complementing the buttery richness of the cake.

Plus, the alcohol content cooks off during baking, leaving behind only a delightful essence that everyone can enjoy.

These recipes use simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, with just a splash of Grand Marnier making all the difference. The cakes turn out moist, tender, and perfect for pairing with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a drizzle of chocolate.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are approachable and rewarding.

By trying these variations, you can find your favorite style of Grand Marnier cake — from dense and rich to light and fluffy. Plus, the cakes keep well, making them great for sharing or enjoying over several days.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ¼ cup Grand Marnier liqueur
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting or glaze ingredients

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • 9-inch bundt pan or 8-inch round cake pans
  • Cooling rack
  • Whisk
  • Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan or cake pans to prevent sticking.
  2. Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add eggs one at a time: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps create a smooth batter.
  5. Mix in flavorings: Add the Grand Marnier, vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until combined.
  6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk in two additions. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
  7. Pour batter into prepared pan(s): Spread the batter evenly and smooth the surface with a spatula.
  8. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Optional glazing: For added flavor and shine, drizzle a glaze made of powdered sugar mixed with a splash of Grand Marnier and orange juice over the cooled cake.

Tips & Variations

For an extra moist cake, brush the warm cake layers with a mixture of Grand Marnier and orange juice before glazing.

  • Use fresh orange zest: It makes a big difference in flavor. Avoid pre-grated or dried zest.
  • Substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt: Replace the milk with an equal amount of sour cream for a denser, tangier cake.
  • Chocolate and Grand Marnier: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for an orange-chocolate twist.
  • Chiffon style: For a lighter cake, fold whipped egg whites into the batter gently before baking.
  • Make cupcakes: Divide the batter into lined muffin tins and reduce baking time to 20-25 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Fat 15 g
Saturated Fat 9 g
Cholesterol 90 mg
Sodium 180 mg
Carbohydrates 39 g
Fiber 1 g
Sugars 27 g
Protein 4 g
Alcohol Traces (mostly cooked off)

Serving Suggestions

Grand Marnier cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Try serving slices with freshly whipped cream lightly sweetened with a bit of vanilla.

A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or orange sorbet adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, citrusy cake.

For a more decadent presentation, drizzle melted dark chocolate or caramel sauce over the top. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a pop of color and tartness that complements the orange flavor.

If you’re serving this cake at a party, consider making mini versions and garnishing each with a small slice of candied orange peel.

Conclusion

Grand Marnier cake is a timeless dessert that brings together the best of citrus and liqueur in a moist, flavorful cake. Its versatility makes it suitable for all occasions, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.

By following these recipes, you can create a bakery-worthy cake right in your own kitchen.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and textures to find your perfect Grand Marnier cake. Whether you prefer a rich bundt cake or a light chiffon, the unique blend of orange zest and Grand Marnier will leave your taste buds delighted.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that’s sure to impress!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our other favorite recipes like Lemon Drizzle Cake, Chocolate Orange Mousse, and Classic Vanilla Cupcakes for a sweet citrus twist.

📖 Recipe Card: Grand Marnier Cake

Description: A moist and flavorful cake infused with the citrusy notes of Grand Marnier. Perfect for celebrations or a special dessert.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT65M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup Grand Marnier
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  3. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
  6. Mix in Grand Marnier, vanilla, and orange zest.
  7. Alternate adding flour mixture and milk, starting and ending with flour.
  8. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  10. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  11. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 42 g

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Marta K

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