Description
This elegant Chocolate Orange Cheesecake brings together the rich decadence of chocolate and the bright citrus zing of orange in a smooth, creamy filling atop a chocolate cookie crust. It’s indulgent, refreshing, and perfect for holiday gatherings, special celebrations, or anytime you’re craving something extra special.
Ingredients
For the crust, you’ll need chocolate graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. For the cheesecake filling, gather softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, large eggs, fresh orange zest, freshly squeezed orange juice, and melted semi-sweet chocolate chips. To make the optional ganache topping, use heavy cream and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Garnishes like orange slices, chocolate shavings, or curls of zest add a beautiful finishing touch.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
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In a bowl, mix together chocolate graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the sour cream and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed. Stir in the orange juice and orange zest.
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Gently swirl in the melted chocolate for a marbled effect — don’t fully mix it in for best visual results.
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Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges are lightly puffed. Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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For the ganache (optional), heat heavy cream until just steaming and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, pour the ganache on top and spread evenly.
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Garnish with orange slices, chocolate shavings, or curls of orange zest before serving.
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Notes
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Let cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
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To prevent cracks, bake with a water bath or place a pan of hot water on a lower oven rack.
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The ganache adds an extra layer of indulgence, but the cheesecake is delicious on its own.
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Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American / European-Inspired