We love how chocolate and orange come together. The bright citrus perfectly complements the velvety chocolate so every bite bursts with flavor.
We created this cheesecake to combine those two delicious tastes. The creamy filling is infused with real orange zest and we top it with a rich layer of chocolate to create the ultimate indulgence.
We can’t wait to show you how easy it is to make this show-stopping dessert. It’s elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough to enjoy any day of the week.
Tools And Equipment
We rely on a few reliable utensils to achieve a creamy Chocolate And Orange Cheesecake. Each item helps us blend flavors and avoid mistakes in our dessert preparation.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch springform pan | Prevents leaks and allows easy release of the cheesecake |
| Mixing bowls | Hold ingredients for smooth and hassle-free blending |
| Hand mixer or stand mixer | Whips the filling to a light texture |
| Rubber spatula | Scrapes batter from all surfaces and prevents waste |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Maintain precise ingredient amounts |
| Citrus zester | Captures fresh orange flavor without adding bitterness |
We prefer a sturdy springform pan so our crust remains intact. We use generous mixing bowls to combine the crust and filling in separate steps. Our mixer keeps the cream cheese airy and smooth. The rubber spatula helps us scrape every bit of batter. Our measuring tools guide us to keep the recipe exact. When we zest fresh oranges we favor a sharp zester for vibrant citrus essence.
Ingredients
Here are the exact ingredients we need to make our creamy Chocolate And Orange Cheesecake. We will keep each component organized for maximum ease.
Crust Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Prep |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate wafer crumbs | 1 1/4 cups | About 150g Fine crumb |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp | – |
| Unsalted butter | 5 tbsp | Melted |
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Prep |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 16 oz | Full-fat softened |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup | – |
| Large eggs | 2 | Room temperature |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup | – |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp | – |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 tsp | – |
| Orange zest | 1 tbsp | Freshly grated |
Chocolate Layer Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Prep |
|---|---|---|
| Semisweet chocolate chips | 1 cup | – |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup | Warmed |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tbsp | – |
Orange Layer Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Prep |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh orange juice | 1/2 cup | Use freshly squeezed juice |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tbsp | – |
| Cornstarch | 1 tsp | Dissolved in a small amount of water |
| Additional orange zest | 1 tsp | Optional garnish |
Directions
Follow these steps to create our indulgent Chocolate And Orange Cheesecake. We keep our tools within reach for a smooth process.
Prepare The Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl we combine chocolate wafer crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. We use a flat-bottomed measuring cup for even pressure against the pan.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until the crust is set. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Make The Cheesecake Filling
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
- In a large mixing bowl we beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour until smooth.
- Add sour cream and freshly grated orange zest. Beat until combined.
- Crack large eggs one at a time into the batter. Mix gently to avoid overworking the eggs.
- Incorporate pure vanilla extract for an aromatic touch.
Add The Layers
- Pour half of the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust.
- In a heatproof bowl we melt semisweet chocolate chips and unsalted butter with a splash of heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate mixture over the layer of filling.
- Top with the remaining cheesecake filling.
- In a small saucepan we combine freshly squeezed orange juice, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Heat until slightly thickened. Drizzle over the surface of the cheesecake if desired.
Bake And Chill
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake the cheesecake at 325°F for 45 to 50 minutes or until the center sets but still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to rest inside for 10 minutes with the door ajar.
- Transfer the cheesecake to a cooling rack. When it reaches room temperature we move it to the refrigerator.
- Chill for at least 4 hours or until firm.
| Stage | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Crust Bake | 350°F | 10 minutes |
| Cheesecake Bake | 325°F | 45 to 50 minutes |
| Final Chill | – | 4 to 6 hours |
Garnish And Serve
- Before serving we remove the springform collar with care.
- Grate extra orange zest on top for fresh citrus aroma.
- Slice with a sharp knife. Wipe the blade after each cut for clean edges.
- Present each slice with an extra drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of zest.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve enjoyed discovering this indulgent blend of chocolate and orange flavors. It’s always a joy to see how a simple citrus twist can elevate a creamy dessert. Now we can savor the best of both worlds with minimal effort. This cheesecake is a perfect treat when we crave something impressive yet easy to prepare. Let’s embrace every slice and share the experience with friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Chocolate and Orange Cheesecake unique?
This cheesecake blends rich chocolate with bright orange zest, creating a luxurious yet refreshing flavor. The creamy filling is layered with bold citrus notes and a smooth chocolate top, making it both indulgent and balanced.
Which tools do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need a 9-inch springform pan, mixing bowls, a hand or stand mixer, a rubber spatula, measuring cups and spoons, and a sharp citrus zester. These help ensure a leak-free bake, precise measurements, and a silky-smooth filling.
Can I replace chocolate wafer crumbs for the crust?
Yes. If you can’t find chocolate wafer crumbs, use crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers with a spoonful of cocoa powder for a similar flavor and texture.
How long should I let the cheesecake cool?
Let it cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour, then bring it to room temperature. Finally, chill it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to set and develop flavor.
How do I store leftover cheesecake?
Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in a freezer-safe container for up to one month.
Can I omit the orange flavor?
Yes. If you prefer a traditional chocolate cheesecake, skip the zest and orange juice. However, the citrus adds a delightful brightness that complements the chocolate’s richness.