Jump to Recipe Print RecipeYou know that feeling when a kitchen scent transports you straight to your favorite bakery? That’s exactly what happens with this velvety Chocolate Orange Cheesecake—a sublime fusion of creamy chocolate and bright citrus that brings comfort and joy, no matter the occasion. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake simplifies the baking process while guaranteeing a stunning dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s not just a treat; it’s make-ahead magic that blends sweetness and tang in every delectable bite. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with this delightful twist? Why is this cheesecake a must-try? Decadent Delight: Each slice of this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a rich indulgence that combines creamy chocolate and tangy citrus in perfect harmony. Effortless Baking: The straightforward process means you don’t need to be a pro baker to achieve a stunning result—just mix, bake, and chill! Versatile Flavor Profiles: Feeling adventurous? You can switch up chocolate types or crust ingredients, adding unique twists with every bake, perfect for fans of recipes like our Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare this cheesecake in advance to allow flavors to blossom, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or surprise visits. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its beautiful presentation and rich taste, this cheesecake is bound to impress both your guests and your taste buds. Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Ingredients Get ready to create the ultimate dessert experience with these simple yet delightful ingredients! For the Crust Chocolate Cookies – Forms the delightful base; think Oreos for an irresistible layer of flavor. Unsalted Butter – Binds the cookie crumbs for a solid crust; opt for coconut oil for a dairy-free twist. For the Filling Cream Cheese – The star of the filling, providing that creamy texture everyone loves; full-fat is best for richness. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; feel free to swap with honey or agave if you’re looking for a natural alternative. Eggs – Stabilizes the cheesecake; vegan? Just substitute with a flaxseed combination for a plant-based option. Orange Zest – Infuses the cheesecake with vibrant citrus notes; always choose fresh over bottled for the best flavor. Orange Juice – Enhances that citrus zing; swap with lemon or lime juice if you’re in a pinch. Alcohol-free Vanilla Extract – Adds a bit of warmth; for extra flavor, consider using homemade vanilla. Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – Folds into the filling for that rich chocolate experience; dark chocolate works if you prefer a deeper taste. Agar-Agar – Sets the filling and is vegetarian-friendly; gelatin can also be used for those who aren’t vegetarian. Water – Simply used to dissolve agar-agar and make it ready to blend into your mixture. This indulgent Chocolate Orange Cheesecake will become a favorite at your table, garnering compliments and ensuring that every gathering feels special! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Step 1: Prepare the Crust Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, crush about 24 chocolate cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by hand. Melt ½ cup of unsalted butter, then combine it with the cookie crumbs until they resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even layer, and bake for 10 minutes until set. Step 2: Make the Filling In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, approximately 3 minutes. Add in 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Then, fold in the zest of 1 orange, ¼ cup of fresh orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring a uniform blend of flavors for your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Step 3: Add Chocolate Melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly, then gently fold the melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture. This will create a luscious, rich filling that perfectly complements the orange essence, bringing the full depth of flavor to your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Step 4: Incorporate Agar-Agar In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 tablespoon of agar-agar powder with ¼ cup of water. Stir continuously until it fully dissolves and begins to simmer, which should take about 5 minutes. Once dissolved, quickly remove from heat and mix it into the cream cheese and chocolate batter, ensuring a thorough incorporation as this will help set your cheesecake. Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake Pour the chocolate filling over the baked crust in the springform pan. Bake in your preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly. Watch for a slight puff and firm surface; this indicates that your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is close to perfection. Step 6: Cool and Chill Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks in the surface. After cooling, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator, allowing it to chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for flavors to fully develop before serving. How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Fridge: Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the creamy texture of your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best taste. Reheating: While not typically necessary, if desired, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until slightly warm, without overcooking. Serving Freshness: Allow the cheesecake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving after just taking it from the fridge for optimal flavor and texture. What to Serve with Velvety Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Indulging in dessert just got easier! Elevate your experience with these delightful pairings that complement the smooth, creamy vibes of a chocolate orange cheesecake. Whipped Cream: Adds a light, airy touch that balances the rich cheesecake, creating a luscious mouthfeel. Fresh Berries: A burst of tartness from strawberries or raspberries offers a refreshing contrast, enhancing the citrus notes. Chocolate Ganache: Drizzled over the top, this rich addition amplifies the chocolate flavor while providing a luxurious finish to each slice. For a whimsical touch, sprinkle some edible flowers for an eye-catching presentation that brings joy to the table. Coffee or Espresso: Their boldness deepens the flavors of chocolate while adding an invigorating vibe to your dessert experience. Mint Leaves: A fresh garnish adds vibrant color and a hit of coolness that brightens the rich cheesecake. Citrus Salad: A mixture of orange and grapefruit segments not only adds color but also complements the citrus flavors beautifully, making every bite refreshing. Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Orange Cheesecakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Start by making the crust and pressing it into your springform pan, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be mixed ahead; simply store it in an airtight container for no more than 3 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling over the chilled crust and bake as instructed. This allows the cheesecake to set beautifully, ensuring it remains just as delicious when served! Expert Tips for Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to avoid lumps in your filling. Mind the Bake: Avoid overbaking your cheesecake; the center should jiggle slightly when you remove it from the oven. This helps keep it creamy! Gradual Cooling: Letting your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar helps prevent cracks on top. This step is crucial! Water Bath Option: If using a water bath, wrap your springform pan tightly in foil to prevent water from seeping in, resulting in a beautifully textured cheesecake. Flavor Infusion: For an extra citrus kick, consider adding a splash of lemon juice along with the orange juice for balanced flavor. Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your very own with these fun twists and alternatives! Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and coconut butter for the crust. You’ll still enjoy that creamy delight without the dairy! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chocolate cookie brands for the crust, ensuring everyone can savor this decadent treat. It’s just as delicious and perfect for gathering everyone around the table. Citrus Swap: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap orange zest and juice for lemon or lime for a tangy twist. This will breathe new life into your cheesecake, creating a whole new flavor experience. Extra Chocolate: For chocoholics, replace semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor. The intensity will elevate every bite, making it a truly luxurious dessert. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of almond or hazelnut extract to the filling for an extra flavor hit. This little addition will surprise and delight your taste buds with layers of taste. Different Crust Options: Experiment with different cookies for the crust, like vanilla wafers or buttery shortbread. Each variation brings a new texture and flavor to your cheesecake! Fruit Toppings: Top the chilled cheesecake with fresh berries or sliced fruits for an inviting presentation. This adds not just visual appeal but also a light freshness that perfectly balances the richness. Decadence Level: To turn this cheesecake into an over-the-top dessert, drizzle with homemade chocolate ganache or a citrus glaze before serving for dramatic flair. Feel inspired? Then check out our recipes for delightful desserts like Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake or the rich Vanilla Cheesecake Bars to keep the flavor adventures rolling! Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chocolate for my cheesecake? Absolutely! When selecting chocolate, look for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips or bars with around 60% cocoa. This gives your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake a rich flavor without being overly bitter. If you prefer a darker taste, opt for bittersweet or dark chocolate, which will elevate the dessert even further. What’s the best way to store leftover cheesecake? I often recommend storing your cheesecake in the fridge covered with plastic wrap to keep it fresh for up to 5 days. This allows the flavors to continue to meld and develop. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Can I freeze Chocolate Orange Cheesecake? Yes! To freeze your cheesecake, first, let it cool completely in the refrigerator. Then, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and keeps it delicious for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to ensure the best taste and texture! What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking? No need to worry! If your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake cracks, it could be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time; it should have slight jiggle in the center. A helpful tip is to cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven with the door ajar, which can prevent cracks from forming. Also, consider using a water bath to help regulate the baking temperature. Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free? Absolutely! You can easily make a dairy-free version of this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake by using plant-based cream cheese and coconut oil in place of butter. Additionally, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg). This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat without any dietary concerns! Irresistible Chocolate Orange Cheesecake to Sweeten Your Day This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake combines creamy chocolate and bright citrus for a delightful and comforting dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Crust24 cookies chocolate cookies e.g., Oreos½ cup unsalted butter meltedFilling16 ounces cream cheese softened1 cup granulated sugar3 large eggs1 tablespoon orange zest fresh¼ cup orange juice fresh1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips melted1 tablespoon agar-agar powder¼ cup water to dissolve agar-agar Equipment Springform PanFood ProcessorMixing bowlElectric MixerMicrowaveSaucepan Method Crust PreparationPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush the chocolate cookies into fine crumbs and mix with melted unsalted butter. Press into the springform pan and bake for 10 minutes.Filling PreparationBeat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time. Mix in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla until blended.Add ChocolateMelt semi-sweet chocolate chips and fold into the cream cheese mixture.Incorporate Agar-AgarDissolve agar-agar in water over medium heat and mix into the filling.BakePour the filling into the crust and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 55-65 minutes.Cool and ChillCool in the oven with door ajar for 1 hour. Then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesAllow ingredients to reach room temperature before starting. Avoid overbaking to maintain creaminess. Chill cheesecake overnight for best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
