Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Chocolate orange cheesecake brings together the rich flavor of chocolate and the refreshing zest of orange in a creamy dessert. This delightful cake is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique combination of flavors. A perfect choice for any occasion, this cheesecake will leave everyone craving for more.

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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

This chocolate orange cheesecake is creamy, decadent, and bursting with flavor. Each bite offers a delicious contrast between the smoothness of the cheesecake and the richness of the chocolate, complemented by the bright citrus notes from the orange juice and zest. It’s an easy recipe that will make you feel like a professional baker, and it’s perfect for celebrations or a cozy dinner at home. With its stunning appearance and incredible taste, this cheesecake will surely be the star of the dessert table.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (about 20-25 cookies)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
8 ounces dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing it and wrapping the outside with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are fully coated and have a consistency similar to wet sand.
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to pack it down firmly. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, orange juice, orange zest, and the melted dark chocolate. Mix until fully blended and smooth. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Prepare a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish and filling the outer dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven and crack the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
Once cooled, remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
To serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice the cheesecake, and garnish with chocolate shavings or whipped cream and additional orange zest as desired.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Serving chocolate orange cheesecake can be an enjoyable affair. Slice the cheesecake into even pieces and place each slice on a dessert plate. Consider garnishing with a dollop of whipped cream, additional orange zest, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings to enhance its appearance. This delightful cake pairs well with a cup of coffee, tea, or a sparkling beverage, making it an excellent choice for after-dinner dessert or a special celebration.

How to Store Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

To store chocolate orange cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. This cheesecake also freezes well for up to two months if you need to prepare it ahead of time.

Tips to Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Perfect

Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. Avoid chocolate chips, as they may not melt smoothly.
Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Don’t skip the water bath, as it helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.
Cool the cheesecake gradually to avoid cracks on the surface.
Let the cheesecake chill overnight; the flavors will develop further.

Flavor Variations

You can easily customize your chocolate orange cheesecake. Here are some ideas:

Mint Chocolate Orange Cheesecake: Add a few drops of mint extract to the cheesecake mixture for a refreshing twist.
Nutty Variation: Stir in crushed nuts like almonds or hazelnuts into the crust for added texture and flavor.
Fruit Enhancement: Top the cheesecake with fresh berries or candied orange slices for added sweetness and color.
Different Citrus: Replace orange juice and zest with lemon or lime for a citrusy variation.

Pro Tips for Success

Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
Avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking to maintain the right temperature.
Test for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean, except for the melted chocolate.
Let the cheesecake sit in the oven after baking for even cooling.

FAQs About Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Can I use graham cracker crumbs instead of chocolate cookie crumbs?
Yes, you can substitute chocolate cookie crumbs with graham cracker crumbs for a different crust flavor. Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more sugar if needed, as graham crackers are less sweet than chocolate cookies.

How can I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
To minimize cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath and allow it to cool gradually in the oven. This gentle cooling helps prevent the cheesecake from experiencing sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chocolate orange cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days and can even be frozen for two months. Just ensure proper wrapping to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate orange cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors with a refreshing twist. Whether for a special occasion or a family gathering, this cheesecake will impress everyone. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily create this delicious treat in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process, and savor every bite of this incredible dessert!

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake