Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
If you’re looking for a dessert that beautifully marries rich chocolate and refreshing citrus, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe. My journey with Chocolate Orange Cheesecake started one afternoon while experimenting with flavors. The result? A creamy, decadent cheesecake that’s both delicate and bold—a showstopper for any gathering or a sweet treat for your family after dinner. This delightful dessert is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to its stunning presentation with fresh orange slices and chocolate shavings.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. For starters, it’s a unique twist on the classic cheesecake that incorporates the bright, tangy flavor of oranges, cutting through the richness of the chocolate. This cheesecake feels special enough for holidays and celebrations, yet simple enough for a weekday treat. It’s sure to please both chocolate lovers and citrus enthusiasts alike, making it the ideal dessert for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
“This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake was the highlight of our dinner party! The chocolate and orange flavors paired perfectly, and everyone asked for the recipe!” – A happy reader
Step-by-step overview
Crafting this chocolate orange beauty might sound intimidating, but I promise it’s a straightforward process. You’ll start with creating a buttery chocolate cookie crust, then whip together a creamy cheesecake filling infused with melted dark chocolate and fresh orange juice. After baking and chilling, you’ll have a dessert that’s as impressive on the table as it is delicious on the palate.
What you’ll need
Let’s gather the key ingredients to make your cheesecake a success:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- Fresh orange slices for garnish
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Feel free to substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with graham cracker crumbs if you prefer a different crust flavor, and make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth consistency.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, mixing well. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until you achieve a smooth texture.
- Gradually add the sour cream, eggs, melted dark chocolate, orange zest, and orange juice, mixing until the mixture is creamy and fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in your springform pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set yet slightly jiggly.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
- Top with fresh orange slices and chocolate shavings before serving. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving Chocolate Orange Cheesecake, consider plating it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar on the plate can elevate the presentation even further. You might also serve it with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a sophisticated touch.
How to store & freeze
To keep your cheesecake fresh, store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap for up to five days. If you want to save some for later, it freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, always ensure your cream cheese is very soft before mixing—it helps avoid lumps in your filling. If you’re short on time, you can skip homemade crust and use a pre-made chocolate crust instead. Also, for a smoother filling, consider using an electric mixer instead of hand whisking for the cheesecake mixture.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Try adding a splash of orange liqueur for an adult twist, or swap the dark chocolate for white chocolate for a different flavor profile. You can also play with toppings—perhaps fresh berries or crushed nuts for a delightful crunch.
Common questions
- How long does it take to prepare Chocolate Orange Cheesecake? The prep time is about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 45-50 minutes, plus additional chilling time.
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be substituted, but it may alter the texture slightly.
- How can I ensure my cheesecake doesn’t crack? Baking the cheesecake in a water bath can help maintain moisture and prevent cracking. Also, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the eggs.
This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is sure to impress both in flavor and aesthetic. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite in your dessert repertoire!
Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs Can substitute with graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
Garnish
- Fresh orange slices For garnish
- Chocolate shavings For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, mixing well.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until you achieve a smooth texture.
- Gradually add the sour cream, eggs, melted dark chocolate, orange zest, and orange juice, mixing until the mixture is creamy and fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in your springform pan, spreading it evenly.
Baking
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set yet slightly jiggly.
Chilling
- Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Serving
- Top with fresh orange slices and chocolate shavings before serving.
- Enjoy it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
