There’s something irresistibly captivating about the combination of chocolate and orange—a pairing that dances on your taste buds and brings a smile to your face. I discovered this Ultra Creamy Chocolate Orange Cheesecake during a quest to elevate my dessert game, and let me tell you, it has quickly become a favorite in my home.
Imagine a rich, velvety cheesecake infused with vibrant orange zest, all resting on a crunchy Oreo crust that adds a satisfying texture with every bite. This dessert isn’t just about looks; it’s packed with flavor, and the silky chocolate ganache on top is a showstopper. Perfect for celebrations or simply to impress guests, this cheesecake can be made ahead of time, making your hosting duties as enjoyable as the sweet rewards that follow.
Join me as I share this delightful recipe, ensuring every slice is a moment to savor. It’s time to whisk up some magic in your kitchen!
Why is Chocolate Orange Cheesecake a Must-Try?
Indulgence: Experience a dessert that combines rich chocolate with zesty orange for a flavor explosion!
Make-Ahead: Prepping this cheesecake in advance means less stress and more time to enjoy your company.
Impressive Presentation: Topped with glossy ganache and candied oranges, it looks as stunning as it tastes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Simplicity: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve an elegant dessert.
If you’re eager to explore more about baking techniques, check out our baking tips for a seamless experience!
Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Ingredients
• Elevate your baking experience with these essential components!
For the Crust
- Oreo crumbs – Provides a flavorful and crunchy crust; substitute with similar chocolate sandwich cookies or graham cracker crumbs, adjusting the butter amount.
- Melted butter – Binds the crust ingredients together; ensure it’s cooled before mixing with crumbs.
- Sea salt – Enhances the flavors of the crust.
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Semisweet chocolate chips – Adds rich chocolate flavor to the cheesecake; do not substitute with milk chocolate, as it may result in excessive sweetness.
- Heavy whipping cream – Used to create a smooth chocolate ganache.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake and helps with texture.
- Cream cheese – Base ingredient for the cheesecake that creates its creamy texture; should be softened at room temperature.
- Eggs – Provides structure and stability; add them one by one, mixing between additions.
- Sour cream – Adds moisture and a slight tang; must be at room temperature.
- Fresh orange juice and zest – Infuses the cheesecake with citrus flavor; zest must be rubbed with sugar to release oils.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
For the Candied Oranges
- Oranges (for candied slices) – Decorative and flavorful topping.
- Additional sugar and water – Used for making the candied orange slices.
Feel free to gather these components and prepare to create a sensational Chocolate Orange Cheesecake that will impress all your friends and family!
How to Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 355°F (180°C). This ensures a perfectly baked cheesecake right from the start!
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Prepare the Crust: Crush Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and sea salt, then press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 12 minutes until set and fragrant.
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Make the Chocolate Filling: Melt semisweet chocolate and heavy whipping cream over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, mix granulated sugar with orange zest, then add softened cream cheese and beat until smooth. Gradually mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the cooled chocolate, sour cream, orange juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Water Bath Prep: In a larger baking pan, pour in hot water, enough to reach halfway up the sides of your springform pan. Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust and carefully place it in the water bath. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
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Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 20 minutes. Once cooled, transfer it to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 8 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Prepare Candied Oranges: Slice the oranges thinly and simmer them in a mixture of sugar and water for 20 minutes until translucent. Remove the slices and let them cool on a wire rack.
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Make Ganache: Heat more heavy cream and a pinch of sea salt in a small saucepan. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl, whisking until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
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Assemble and Serve: Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, pour the smooth ganache over the top. Decorate with the candied orange slices for an elegant finish. Chill briefly to set the ganache, then slice and serve!
Optional: Garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth batter; this helps prevent lumps in your cheesecake.
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Prevent Cracking: Using a water bath during baking helps to ensure even cooking and prevents cracks on the surface of your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Wrap the springform pan tightly in foil to keep water out.
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Cool Gradually: After baking, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar to cool slowly; this minimizes temperature shock and helps retain moisture.
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Chill Thoroughly: Allow the cheesecake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours (or preferably overnight) to let the flavors meld and achieve the perfect texture.
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Zesty Boost: When zesting your oranges, rub the zest with a little sugar before mixing it into the filling; this releases essential oils and enhances the overall citrus flavor.
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Garnish Wisely: Finish your cheesecake with the candied oranges right before serving to maintain their texture and shine; they add a beautiful touch that complements the rich flavors.
Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Variations
Let’s make this delightful cheesecake uniquely yours with a few fun twists!
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Lemon Zest: Substitute fresh orange juice and zest with lemon for a bright, tangy flavor that elevates each bite.
Imagine biting into a slice that surprises your palate with a refreshing zing, perfect for lemon lovers! -
Nutty Crust: Swap Oreo crumbs with crushed almonds or hazelnuts for a nutty, crunchy base, adding depth to the flavor.
This twist gives the cheesecake a lovely earthy tone that beautifully harmonizes with the chocolate. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
Who says desserts can’t have a little spice! This will keep your guests guessing about that extra zing! -
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for the ganache to create a delicious vegan version of this cheesecake.
Everyone deserves a taste of this luxuriously creamy cheesecake, no matter their dietary preferences! -
Coffee Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of espresso powder with the chocolate filling for a mocha-inspired cheesecake that coffee lovers will adore.
It’s like having your dessert and your favorite coffee in one delightful package! -
Chocolate Ganache Substitute: Use white chocolate for the ganache to create a sweeter alternative that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheesecake.
This variation adds a playful twist with a creamy sweetness that melts in your mouth. -
Fruit Compote Topping: Instead of candied oranges, top your cheesecake with a vibrant berry compote for a fresh, tangy finish.
This delicious topping introduces a burst of color and flavor, perfect for brightening up the presentation! -
Gluten-Free Crust: Replace the Oreo crust with a combination of ground almonds and coconut flour for a gluten-free option without compromising taste.
You’ll have a delightful gluten-free dessert that everyone can enjoy, bringing joy to all at your table!
What to Serve with Chocolate Orange Cheesecake?
Imagine the delightful atmosphere of a cozy gathering, where rich flavors and warm smiles abound. Pairing dishes with this indulgent cheesecake enhances the culinary experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the creamy texture of the cheesecake.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a medley of ripe berries for a burst of freshness and a pop of color that balances the richness.
- Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee perfectly complement the chocolate while offering an uplifting contrast to the sweetness.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of chocolate sauce not only adds an elegant touch but intensifies the chocolate flavor that cheesecake lovers adore.
- Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves brings a refreshing note and a beautiful garnish to enhance both presentation and taste.
- Candied Orange Slices: Use extra candied oranges for a delightful textural contrast that echoes the orange flavor within the cheesecake itself.
- Prosecco or Champagne: A glass of bubbly elevates any gathering, cutting through the creaminess with its effervescence, creating a festive spirit.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a small scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent fusion of flavors that melts luxuriously with each bite.
- Dark Chocolate Shavings: Add a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings on top of the cheesecake for an extra touch of elegance and richness.
Creating a memorable meal is about harmony and contrast, so feel free to mix and match these pairings to discover the perfect flavor companion for your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
Fridge: Store your cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent odors from other foods.
Freezer: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then foil, to protect it from freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw your cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight. For best results, serve chilled to retain its creamy texture.
Make-Ahead: This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake can be prepared 1-2 days ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Orange Cheesecake delights are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and crust up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the crust and let it cool completely, then mix the filling and pour it into the cooled crust. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors develop. For an even more impressive touch, make the candied orange slices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, garnish with orange slices, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dessert with minimal effort!
Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What kind of chocolate is best for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! I recommend using semisweet chocolate chips for the richest flavor. Milk chocolate may be too sweet and overpower the subtle orange notes you want to highlight in the cheesecake.
How do I know if my oranges are ripe for zesting?
Very! Look for firm oranges with smooth skin and vibrant color. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel soft, as these may indicate overripeness or spoilage. Fresh oranges will yield a more aromatic zest to elevate your cheesecake!
How should I store the Chocolate Orange Cheesecake?
For sure! Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped or placed in an airtight container to avoid any unwanted odors from other foods.
Can I freeze the cheesecake for later?
Yes! You can freeze your baked cheesecake for up to 2 months. To do this, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking?
The more the merrier when it comes to avoiding cracks! Ensure you use a water bath, which helps maintain moisture. If cracks do appear, don’t worry! You can cover them up with the glossy ganache topping for a beautiful presentation.
Are there any dietary considerations for serving this cheesecake?
Definitely! While this recipe contains dairy and gluten due to cream cheese and Oreo cookies, you can easily adjust it for dietary needs. Consider using gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives to accommodate guests with allergies. Always check labels for any specific dietary restrictions.
Decadent Chocolate Orange Cheesecake You Can Make Ahead
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C).
- Crush Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine, mix with melted butter and sea salt, then press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 12 minutes.
- Melt semisweet chocolate and heavy cream over a double boiler. In a bowl, mix sugar with orange zest, then add softened cream cheese and beat until smooth. Gradually mix in eggs, cooled chocolate, sour cream, orange juice, and vanilla.
- In a larger baking pan, pour hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Pour cheesecake filling into the cooled crust and bake for 60-75 minutes.
- Turn off the oven, leave cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 20 minutes. Then transfer to room temperature and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Slice the oranges thinly and simmer in sugar and water for 20 minutes until translucent. Cool on a wire rack.
- Heat more heavy cream with a pinch of sea salt, pour over chocolate chips and whisk until smooth.
- Once cheesecake is chilled, pour the ganache over the top and decorate with candied orange slices.