Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the zesty brightness of fresh oranges with the deep, smooth flavor of chocolate. This no-fuss cheesecake offers a luxurious twist on a classic favorite and is ideal for festive gatherings or elegant dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious fusion of citrus and chocolate
Smooth, velvety cheesecake texture
Great make-ahead dessert for parties
Impressive presentation with minimal effort
Easily customizable with garnishes or toppings

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate cookie crumbs (for crust)
Unsalted butter
Cream cheese
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Orange zest
Fresh orange juice
Sour cream or heavy cream
Semi-sweet chocolate, melted
Vanilla extract
Salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper.
Mix cookie crumbs and melted butter together, press into the bottom of the pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in orange zest, orange juice, sour cream (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is slightly set but still wobbly.
Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Baking Time: 60 minutes
Cooling & Chilling Time: 5–6 hours total
Total Time: Approximately 6.5 hours

Variations

Use dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa flavor.
Garnish with candied orange peel or chocolate shavings.
Add a tablespoon of orange liqueur for added depth.
Make mini cheesecakes using a muffin tin.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: Not applicable – cheesecake is served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is preferred for better flavor, but you can use high-quality store-bought juice in a pinch.

What chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate bars are ideal; avoid chocolate chips, which may not melt as smoothly.

Do I need a water bath?

A water bath helps prevent cracking, but it’s optional. You can also place a pan of hot water on the oven rack below the cheesecake.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set while the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken.

Can I make this without a crust?

Yes, simply bake the filling in a greased pan for a crustless version.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Heavy cream, Greek yogurt, or crème fraîche are good alternatives.

How long does this need to chill?

At least 4 hours, but overnight chilling gives the best results.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, cheesecake is perfect for making 1–2 days in advance.

Can I use orange extract instead of juice?

Yes, but use sparingly (about 1/2 teaspoon) since it is concentrated.

How do I prevent cracking?

Avoid overbaking, use room temperature ingredients, and let it cool slowly in the oven before refrigerating.

Conclusion

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is an elegant, crowd-pleasing dessert that balances the richness of chocolate with the refreshing citrus zing of orange. With its smooth texture and refined flavor profile, it’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply indulging in a luxurious homemade treat.

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

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Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a creamy, citrus-infused dessert that blends the bright flavor of orange with rich chocolate in a smooth cheesecake base. Perfect for festive occasions or elegant entertaining.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 6.5 hours
Yield: 10–12 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper.
Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in orange zest, orange juice, sour cream (or heavy cream), vanilla extract, and salt.
Fold in melted chocolate until fully combined.
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let cool for 1 hour.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.