Heavenly Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
A delightful dessert combining rich dark chocolate and zesty orange flavors, perfect for any celebration or sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs Substitute with gluten-free biscuits for a gluten-free version.
- 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter Make sure it’s melted for easy mixing.
For the cheesecake filling
- 8 oz Cream Cheese Use full-fat for the best results.
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar Alternatives like honey or maple syrup can be used.
- 8 oz Dark Chocolate (60-70% cocoa) Swap for orange-infused chocolate for more citrusy notes.
- 2 large Fresh Oranges Use zest and juice; orange extract can be a substitute.
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Whipped to soft peaks before incorporating.
- 1 tbsp Orange Zest Enhances the citrus aroma and presentation.
For serving
- 1 cup Whipped Cream A dollop on top adds a light, airy touch.
- 0.5 cup Melted Chocolate Drizzle this over the cheesecake.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the crust.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then let it cool.
Cheesecake Filling
- While the crust cools, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave or double boiler until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Add the melted chocolate, zest, and juice of the fresh oranges to the cream cheese mixture and blend well.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully combined but still light and airy.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread it evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until set.
Serving
- Before serving, drizzle melted chocolate over the top and garnish with whipped cream and orange zest.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing. For a more intense orange flavor, add extra zest and juice. Do not overmix the whipped cream to maintain its lightness. For a different flavor profile, try adding a splash of Grand Marnier or Cointreau to the cheesecake mixture for an orange liqueur twist. You can also swap out dark chocolate for a white chocolate version for a sweeter taste. Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to five days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving again.