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Chocolate Orange Cheesecake – Rich, Creamy & Irresistibly Zesty
If you love the bold depth of chocolate combined with the bright, citrusy aroma of fresh oranges, this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake will quickly become your go-to dessert. It’s luxuriously creamy, perfectly balanced, and topped with a silky chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. Every bite delivers that classic chocolate richness followed by a subtle burst of orange zest that keeps it from feeling too heavy.
This baked chocolate cheesecake recipe is perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or when you simply want to create something extraordinary in your own kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a special autumn gathering, the flavors feel cozy, elegant, and timeless.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the ultimate chocolate orange cheesecake from scratch.
Why Chocolate and Orange Work So Well Together
Chocolate and orange are a classic pairing for a reason. The deep, slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate contrast beautifully with the natural sweetness and acidity of citrus. This balance enhances both flavors instead of overpowering them.
The orange zest dessert profile in this cheesecake isn’t overwhelming. Instead, it gently lifts the chocolate flavor, creating a layered taste experience that feels refined and indulgent.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cookie Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (about 200g)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
For the Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (680g) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 6 oz (170g) dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
- Zest of 2 large oranges
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for stability)
- Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 4 oz (115g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional garnish)
- Chocolate shavings or curls (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
- Stir in sour cream and heavy cream.
- Mix in melted chocolate, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, flour (if using), and salt.
- Blend just until smooth — avoid overmixing.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Wrap the outside of the springform pan with foil.
- Place the pan into a larger baking dish and pour hot water halfway up the sides (water bath method).
- Bake for 55–70 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Remove and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Prepare the Ganache
- Heat heavy cream until steaming (not boiling).
- Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 2 minutes.
- Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour ganache over chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.
- Garnish with orange zest and chocolate curls.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Cold cream cheese can create lumps. Let everything sit out for at least 30–45 minutes before mixing.
2. Don’t Overmix
Overmixing introduces air bubbles, which can cause cracks.
3. Always Use a Water Bath
A water bath ensures even baking and prevents surface cracking.
4. Chill Overnight
This is not a rush recipe. Proper chilling ensures clean slices and enhanced flavor.
Variations You’ll Love
White Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier twist.
No-Bake Version
Skip the eggs and baking. Use whipped cream for structure and refrigerate until set.
Spiced Autumn Version
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a cozy fall-inspired dessert.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh orange slices.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with espresso or black coffee.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for contrast.
This holiday cheesecake recipe is stunning on dessert tables and elegant enough for formal dinners.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze whole or sliced for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 32g
- Sugar: 26g
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is rich without being overwhelming, citrusy without being sharp, and indulgent without feeling heavy. It’s the perfect dessert when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Once you taste that silky chocolate ganache cheesecake layered over creamy orange-infused filling, you’ll understand why this combination has stood the test of time.
Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
A rich and creamy baked chocolate cheesecake infused with fresh orange zest and topped with silky ganache.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare crust and bake 10 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time. Mix in melted chocolate, orange zest, and sour cream.
- Pour into crust and bake in water bath 55–70 minutes.
- Cool gradually, then refrigerate at least 6 hours.
- Prepare ganache and pour over chilled cheesecake.
Notes
For best results, chill overnight before slicing.
