Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a luscious blend of creamy cheesecake, rich dark chocolate, and bright citrus flavors. It’s a delightful dessert that combines the comforting texture of cheesecake with a refreshing twist of fresh oranges. Perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a decadent treat.

Ingredients

• 24 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa)
• Zest and juice of 2 large fresh oranges
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and juice until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Melt the dark chocolate gently, either in a microwave or over a double boiler, and allow it to cool slightly. Fold the melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture along with the whipped heavy cream until smooth and well combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
5. Step 5: Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with additional melted chocolate drizzles and fresh orange slices for an elegant finish.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra burst of orange flavor, add a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the filling mixture.
• Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter, creamier finish.
• Press the graham cracker crust firmly to prevent crumbling when slicing.

Storage

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat slightly, let slices sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter taste, but it will change the intensity of the chocolate flavor. Adjust sugar levels if needed.

How do I know when the cheesecake is fully set?

The cheesecake should be firm to the touch and slice cleanly after chilling for at least 4 hours. Overnight chilling is best for optimal texture.

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 117 reviews

This decadent Chocolate Orange Cheesecake combines a rich and creamy cream cheese filling infused with zesty fresh oranges and smooth dark chocolate, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly balanced with the bright citrus notes and the deep cocoa flavor, this no-bake cheesecake is chilled to set and garnished elegantly with melted chocolate and orange slices for a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

• 24 oz cream cheese (full-fat), softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 large fresh oranges
• Juice of 2 large fresh oranges
• 8 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), melted and cooled slightly
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

Garnish

• Melted dark chocolate
• Fresh orange slices

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to set it, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
2. Make the cream cheese mixture: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until well combined. Stir in the zest and juice of two large fresh oranges to infuse the mixture with citrus flavor.
3. Incorporate the chocolate and cream: Melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or gently in the microwave, then let it cool slightly to avoid curdling the cream cheese mixture. Fold the melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture gently. Next, fold in the whipped heavy cream carefully to maintain a fluffy texture.
4. Assemble and chill: Pour the creamy filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top evenly. Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set firmly.
5. Garnish and serve: Before serving, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top of the chilled cheesecake and decorate with fresh orange slices for a beautiful presentation and added burst of citrus flavor.

Notes

• For best results, use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
• If you prefer a more intense orange flavor, add extra zest or a tablespoon of orange liqueur.
• Be careful not to overmix the whipped cream into the filling to keep the cheesecake light and airy.
• If you want a firmer crust, let it chill in the refrigerator after baking before adding the filling.
• This cheesecake is best served chilled and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Keywords: chocolate orange cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, no bake cheesecake, citrus dessert, holiday dessert