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This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is my favorite foolproof dessert for when I want something rich and crowd-pleasing yet deceptively easy. Silky cream cheese melds with fragrant orange and decadent dark chocolate in a graham cracker crust. Every time I bring this to a potluck or family dinner, everyone rushes for seconds. Whether you are a cheesecake lover or just looking to impress guests without a fuss, this one never disappoints.
I first made this cheesecake for a friend’s birthday and everyone at the party asked for the recipe. Even as someone who does not usually gravitate to cheesecake, the orange twist pulled me in.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese This is the base for firmness and tang Select a full-fat block type for the creamiest texture
- Granulated sugar Brings sweetness and helps the cheesecake set smoothly Opt for superfine sugar for smoother blending
- Heavy whipping cream Gives a luscious featherlight finish Use fresh cream not ultra-pasteurized if possible
- Dark chocolate Look for 60 to 70 percent cocoa for deep flavor Choose a quality baking chocolate not chocolate chips
- Fresh oranges Use both zest and juice for aroma and bright flavor Pick firm fruits with tight smooth skins for best zest
- Graham cracker crumbs Creates a crunchy counterpoint to the creamy filling You can swap with digestive biscuits for a different flair
- Unsalted butter Binds the crust and adds richness Use real butter for best taste not margarine
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Pulse graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor Combine with melted unsalted butter in a large bowl and mix until all crumbs are evenly moistened Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan forming a flat even base Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes and let it cool completely so the crust does not get soggy later
- Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a stand mixer or with a hand beater whip room temperature cream cheese until it is absolutely smooth and fluff no lumps should remain Toss in superfine sugar gradually and beat until you get a silky mixture Blend in the freshly grated orange zest and juice for citrusy perfume throughout
- Prepare the Chocolate:
- Chop dark chocolate finely and melt over a double boiler or in the microwave using short bursts Stir well and let it cool until just warm to the touch but still pourable This keeps the chocolate from seizing when mixed in
- Fold Everything Together:
- Lightly whip the heavy cream in a separate chilled bowl just to soft peaks Gently fold the melted chocolate into the cream cheese mix followed by the whipped cream Fold in with a spatula using broad strokes to keep the mixture fluffy
- Assemble and Chill:
- Pour this decadent mixture over the cooled crust smoothing the top with a spatula Refrigerate for at least four hours or even better overnight This helps the flavors meld and gives the cheesecake a perfect sliceable set
- Garnish and Serve:
- Right before serving run a thin knife around the pan and unmold Top with extra swirls of melted chocolate and fresh orange slices for a stunning finish Serve cold in generous wedges
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Storage Tips
Cover leftover cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container It will stay fresh and creamy in the fridge for three to four days For longer storage slice and freeze individual portions wrap well and thaw in the fridge before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need gluten free simply swap the graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten free biscuits or almond flour crumbs For a slightly lighter texture you can fold in Greek yogurt for part of the whipping cream If you are out of dark chocolate try semisweet but reduce the sugar just a bit
Serving Suggestions
This cheesecake looks beautiful on a platter with extra orange zest or grated chocolate on top For special occasions drizzle with dark chocolate ganache or a whisper of orange liqueur syrup I also love serving it with candied orange peel and a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream
Cultural Notes
Cheesecake's roots stretch back to ancient Greece but adding chocolate and citrus is a more modern twist Popular in Europe chocolate orange flavor is tied to holiday traditions as a symbol of good luck and indulgence The combination brings a festive bakery feel to any table
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it's best prepared in advance since chilling in the fridge allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Choose dark chocolate with 60-70% cocoa. This offers a rich flavor that balances well with the orange zest.
- → How do I achieve a smooth filling?
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing and fold in whipped cream gently to keep the texture light.
- → Can I substitute the graham cracker crust?
Yes, try crushed chocolate biscuits or gluten-free alternatives for a different texture or dietary need.
- → What are some garnish ideas?
Decorate with curled chocolate, extra orange zest, or thinly sliced fresh oranges for a visually appealing finish.