Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe
A rich and decadent Chocolate Orange Cheesecake combining smooth cream cheese with dark chocolate and fresh orange zest and juice, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. This dessert strikes a perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and chocolaty flavors, ideal for special occasions or indulgent treats.
- Author: Caleb
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking and chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese (full-fat), softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa), melted and slightly cooled
- Zest and juice of 2 large fresh oranges
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
- Make the cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated. Mix in the orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice to infuse bright citrus flavor.
- Incorporate chocolate and cream: Melt the dark chocolate gently and allow it to cool slightly to prevent curdling. Fold the melted chocolate carefully into the cream cheese mixture. Then, whip the heavy cream separately to soft peaks and fold it gently into the chocolate cream cheese mixture until combined and smooth.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set and the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally drizzle melted chocolate on top and decorate with fresh orange slices for an elegant finish. Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and enjoy.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream to achieve a rich and creamy texture.
- The dark chocolate should be melted gently to avoid burning; use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.
- Make sure the crust is completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent melting.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for optimal firmness and flavor development.
- This cheesecake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use fresh oranges for the zest and juice to get the brightest flavor; avoid using bottled juice.
- To make slicing easier, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Chocolate Orange Cheesecake, dark chocolate cheesecake, orange zest dessert, creamy cheesecake recipe, no-bake cheesecake variation