Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAt the heart of every gathering is a dessert that steals the show, and nothing quite captivates like a creamy Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. This delightful combination of rich, velvety cheesecake, the brightness of zesty oranges, and the depth of dark chocolate turns any occasion into a celebration. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or simply craving an indulgent treat, this easy-to-make recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser, appealing to both sweet tooth aficionados and beginners alike. On top of that, it’s adaptable to suit dietary needs, so everyone can join in on the deliciousness. Ready to add a touch of elegance to your dessert table? Let’s dive in and explore how to create this luxurious, refreshing treat! Why is Chocolate Orange Cheesecake a Must-Try? Unforgettable Combination: This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake brings together rich chocolate and zesty orange in a harmonious blend, tantalizing your taste buds with every bite. Easy to Make: Designed for bakers of all levels, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum impact, ensuring even novices can shine in the kitchen. Adaptable Delight: Easily customized for dietary needs, whether gluten-free or dairy-free, making it a go-to dessert for every gathering. Visual Showstopper: The elegant presentation garners oohs and aahs at any celebration, making it an impressive centerpiece on your dessert table. Perfect for Any Occasion: From Thanksgiving feasts to simple family dinners, this cheesecake fits perfectly into various celebrations, guaranteeing smiles all around. Add a twist with the rich flavors of a Bake Chocolate Peanut or the fresh zing of Mint Chocolate Chip for an added treat! Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Ingredients For the Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese – Essential for that creamy texture; use full-fat for best results. Granulated Sugar – This sweetens the filling; consider a natural sweetener for a healthier version. Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds lightness and richness; swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free delight. Dark Chocolate (60-70% cocoa) – Rich in flavor, it gives depth; semi-sweet is great for a sweeter option. Fresh Oranges (zest and juice of 2) – Brightens the cheesecake; always opt for fresh juice over bottled for maximum flavor. For the Crust Graham Cracker Crumbs – Forms the structure of the crust; use gluten-free biscuit crumbs for a gluten-free option. Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – Binds the crust while adding richness; ensure it’s melted for easy mixing. Elevate your dessert game with this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake that promises to impress at every celebration! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect temperature for baking your crust. While it warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare a springform pan by lightly greasing it with butter or non-stick spray for easy removal later. Step 2: Prepare the Crust In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter until well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until it’s just golden and fragrant, then remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling In a large mixing bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s velvety and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add granulated sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Zest two oranges into the bowl, then squeeze in their juice, ensuring every drop goes in for that fresh flavor. Beat until the mixture is well blended and creamy. Step 4: Incorporate the Chocolate Melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before folding it into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to keep the texture airy and light, ensuring that the rich flavor of the chocolate is evenly distributed. Step 5: Add Whipped Cream In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. This step is crucial for achieving a light and luxurious filling in your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake Pour the creamy filling into the cooled graham cracker crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Smooth the top to create an inviting surface for garnishing later. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to set for at least 4 hours, though overnight is preferred for the best texture. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once the cheesecake has set, it’s time to add some flair! Melt a bit of dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top, then layer fresh orange slices around the edge for a beautiful presentation. Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and slice with a warm knife, showcasing the creamy layers of your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Variations Feel free to personalize this delightful recipe with your own creative twists and substitutions! Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese and heavy cream for vegan alternatives like cashew cream and coconut cream. Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust instead of traditional graham crackers. White Chocolate Twist: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate to create a sweeter, more indulgent filling. Nutty Crust: Blend in finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the crust for an added crunch and flavor. Layer of Joy: Spread a layer of orange jelly or marmalade on top of the cheesecake before garnishing for vibrant sweetness. Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, inviting flavor that is perfect for fall celebrations. Citrus Burst: Experiment with additional citrus zest, like lemon or lime, to brighten the flavors and add complexity. Decadent Drizzle: Top with a drizzle of salted caramel or chocolate ganache for an extra layer of indulgence. Consider pairing your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with dollops of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra touch of deliciousness. If you’re in the mood for more tempting treats, check out Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake or enjoy an elegant Honey Cheesecake Salted that never disappoints! Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Orange Cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, making your dessert planning a breeze. Simply bake the crust, then allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. The filling can be mixed and stored in an airtight container in the fridge, ensuring freshness. Just before serving, pour the chilled filling into the crust, smooth the top, and let it set for another 4 hours or overnight. By prepping the components ahead, you’ll save precious time and still enjoy a dessert that’s just as delicious! Expert Tips for Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This avoids lumps and creates a smooth, creamy filling for your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to prevent air from being trapped; this helps avoid cracks as the cheesecake bakes and cools. Chill Time Matters: For best results, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight. This allows flavors to meld and results in a firmer texture. Clean Cuts: Dip your knife in warm water before slicing. This tip ensures neat, beautiful slices that showcase the layers of your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Proper Cooling: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature before chilling. Rapid temperature changes can cause unsightly cracks. How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Fridge: Wrap leftover cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy anytime. Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each slice in plastic, and place them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, remove the desired slice from the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat cheesecake; enjoy it chilled for the best flavor and texture. The wonderful combination of flavors in your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake will shine through when served cold! What to Serve with Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this rich cheesecake with delightful accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries complements the sweetness of the cheesecake, adding a pop of color. Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream enhances the creaminess of the cheesecake, lending an extra touch of indulgence. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate and zesty orange. The creamy texture balances the cheesecake’s richness beautifully. Chocolate Ganache: Adding a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache intensifies the chocolate experience and adds an elegant touch to your presentation. Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti on the side offers a satisfying texture contrast, perfect for dipping or nibbling alongside each slice. Orange Juice Cocktail: A refreshing orange juice cocktail can brighten the dessert table, making for a bubbly celebration that’s great for toasting. Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint leaves not only adds a touch of green but also complements the orange zest with its fresh aroma. Creamy Smoothies: Serve a light smoothie made with banana and orange, echoing the flavors of the cheesecake while adding a refreshing element. Dark Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings over the cheesecake elevates both the looks and flavors, enticing chocolate lovers. Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe oranges for my cheesecake? Absolutely! Look for oranges that feel firm and heavy for their size, with smooth skin and a bright color. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as this may indicate overripeness. Fresh oranges will give your cheesecake the best flavor. What is the best way to store leftover cheesecake? Very easy! Wrap your leftover Chocolate Orange Cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. It should stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s well-covered to prevent drying out, and you can enjoy a piece whenever the craving strikes! Can I freeze Chocolate Orange Cheesecake? Yes, you can! Slice your cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while cooling? No worries, it happens! To avoid cracks, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing and be careful not to overmix the batter. If it does crack, you can simply cover it with chocolate drizzles or fresh orange slices to conceal imperfections—it’s still going to taste amazing! Is this dessert safe for people with dietary restrictions? Absolutely! By swapping the cream cheese for a dairy-free variety and using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake can cater to gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh? I recommend avoiding bottled juice for this recipe! Fresh orange juice provides a vibrant taste and aroma that really enhances the cheesecake. The zest from fresh oranges adds an important flavor component too, making all the difference in your dessert’s outcome. Irresistible Chocolate Orange Cheesecake for Every Celebration No ratings yet This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake brings together creamy cheesecake with zesty orange and rich chocolate, making it a show-stopping dessert for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cheesecake Filling16 oz Cream Cheese full-fat for best results3/4 cup Granulated Sugar can use a natural sweetener1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream can swap with coconut cream8 oz Dark Chocolate (60-70% cocoa) semi-sweet is great for a sweeter option2 whole Fresh Oranges zest and juiceFor the Crust1.5 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs can use gluten-free biscuit crumbs1/2 cup Unsalted Butter ensure melted for easy mixing Equipment OvenMixing BowlSpringform PanSpatulawhisk Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a springform pan by lightly greasing it.Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a bowl until crumbly. Press mix into the bottom of the springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool.In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, then mix in the zest and juice of the oranges.Melt dark chocolate and fold it into the cream cheese mixture gently.Whip heavy cream to soft peaks and gently fold it into the chocolate cream cheese mixture.Pour the filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.Once set, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top and add fresh orange slices for garnishing before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling. Refrigerate overnight for best flavor and texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
