Name: Orange Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 24 oz cream cheese (full-fat), softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; Zest and juice of 2 large fresh oranges; 8 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), melted and cooled slightly; 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped; Melted dark chocolate (for drizzling); Orange slices

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Introduction

This Orange Cheesecake offers a delightful blend of creamy texture and bright citrus flavor, perfectly balanced with rich dark chocolate. It’s a refreshing twist on a classic dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends.

A slice of three-layered dessert sits on a white plate, each layer clearly visible. The bottom layer is dark brown and crumbly, looking like a chocolate crust. Above it, a thick middle layer is creamy beige with a smooth texture. The top layer is shiny and rich dark chocolate, slightly dripping down the sides. Two bright orange slices and a small dollop of whipped cream or mousse decorate the top right edge. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes and allow the crust to cool completely.
Step 2: Beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add granulated sugar, then stir in the orange zest and fresh orange juice until evenly combined.
Step 3: Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Let it cool slightly before folding it gently into the cream cheese mixture along with the whipped heavy cream.
Step 4: Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set fully.
Step 5: Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with additional melted chocolate drizzles and fresh orange slices for an elegant finish.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh oranges for the best flavor, and avoid bottled juice which can taste flat.
For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts on top before chilling.
Substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed digestive biscuits or oreo crumbs for a different base.
Allow the melted chocolate to cool but not harden before folding it in to maintain a smooth texture.

Storage

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese and whipped cream.

How to Serve

The image shows a slice of three-layer chocolate orange cake on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is dark brown with a crumbly texture, the middle layer is creamy beige and smooth, and the top layer is shiny dark chocolate ganache dripping slightly on the side. On top of the cake, there are two bright orange orange slices and a swirl of dark chocolate decoration. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?

A springform pan is ideal for easy removal, but you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper. Carefully loosen the edges when serving.

What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?

You can substitute heavy whipping cream with full-fat sour cream or mascarpone for a slightly different but still creamy texture.