Rich, creamy, and joyfully indulgent, this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is the ultimate showstopper dessert for any special occasion or just because. With its luscious layers of zesty orange and decadent chocolate, this treat is irresistibly smooth with a hint of citrus that brightens up each bite. Whether you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this cheesecake will easily become a standout favorite—trust me, every forkful feels like a little celebration!

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze—and each one has a special role to play in building flavor, achieving the perfect texture, and lending that beautiful color contrast. Don’t skip or substitute; every item brings something essential to your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake.

Chocolate cookie crumbs: Use Oreos or similar cookies for a deeply chocolatey, crunchy base that perfectly supports the creamy filling.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crust together and adds richness, ensuring those crumbs stay crisp and cohesive.
Granulated sugar: Just the right amount balances the dark chocolate and tangy orange, in both the crust and the filling.
Cream cheese: The star of the show—softened cream cheese ensures a smooth, luscious, and creamy cheesecake.
Sour cream: Adds extra tang and silkiness, keeping the filling from feeling too heavy.
Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon enhances all the other flavors and adds depth.
Eggs: Bind the filling for a sliceable, classic cheesecake texture—add these one at a time.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that unmistakable, deep chocolate flavor—make sure to use a good quality brand.
Orange zest: Freshly grated zest is key; it gives the whole cake a natural, vibrant citrus aroma.
Orange juice: Freshly squeezed juice brings brightness and mild acidity to perfectly highlight the chocolate.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): If you want little bursts of chocolate throughout, fold these in for added texture and surprise.
Whipped cream: Ultra-light and airy—just what you want to top off each creamy, tangy slice.
Orange slices: Colorful, juicy, and a gorgeous garnish that hints at the flavors within.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you even start measuring ingredients, set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Getting it to the right temperature is crucial for even baking and the perfect texture later on. This small detail makes a bigger difference than you might expect!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix your chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until everything looks like delicious, wet sand. Next, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Try using the back of a spoon or your fingers for an even layer. Slide it into the oven and bake for 10 minutes. When it comes out, let the crust cool while you move on to the filling—it’ll smell like pure chocolate heaven!

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Using a large bowl and an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese for two minutes until creamy and completely smooth—take your time, as any lumps will show later. Gradually add in granulated sugar, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the cocoa powder, freshly grated orange zest, and orange juice, then mix just until everything looks uniform—overmixing can lead to cracks. If you love a little chocolate surprise in every mouthful, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips at the end.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour your silky-smooth filling onto the cooled crust. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any air bubbles, then smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the edges look set but the center still gently jiggles—don’t worry, it’ll firm up as it cools.

Step 5: Cool the Cheesecake

Once the timer dings, turn the oven off but leave your cheesecake inside for another hour. This slow cooling step helps prevent cracks and ensures your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is beautifully smooth on top. After an hour, bring it out and let it reach room temperature. Finally, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. The chilling is part of what gives cheesecake its dreamy texture!

Step 6: Serve

When your cheesecake is completely chilled and set, gently remove it from the springform pan. Slice into portions with a hot, clean knife for the prettiest served pieces. Finish each slice with a swoosh of whipped cream and a bright orange slice for a pop of color and citrusy aroma—both a feast for the eyes and the palate!

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, try a generous swirl of whipped cream and a couple of fresh orange slices—or even tiny segments of candied orange peel for extra zing. Chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted chocolate will delight the chocoholics in the room. These little details highlight the flavors and make your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake as beautiful as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

Cheesecake is a showstopper all by itself, but if you want to round out your dessert table, serve it with a bowl of fresh berries or a simple citrus salad. The light, tart notes from the fruit balance out the richness of the cheesecake perfectly. For something extra special, a side of strong espresso or a glass of dessert wine will elevate things even more.

Creative Ways to Present

Jazz up your dessert game by serving individual mini Chocolate Orange Cheesecakes in jars or ramekins—perfect for parties or picnics. For a dramatic holiday effect, arrange slices in a circle on a cake stand and sprinkle with finely grated chocolate and orange zest. Even a dusting of cocoa powder and a few edible flowers can transform a humble slice into a truly memorable treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesecake fans, rejoice—your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store leftovers, tightly covered, for up to five days. The texture stays creamy and the flavors meld more deliciously with each passing day. Just be sure the cake is well-wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent it from picking up fridge aromas.

Freezing

Want to save some cheesecake magic for later? You absolutely can! Once it’s fully cooled and set, wrap individual slices (or the entire cake) in plastic wrap and then foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving—you’ll be amazed at how well the flavors hold up.

Reheating

Cheesecake is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so no need to reheat. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let a refrigerated slice sit out for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for maximum creaminess. Avoid the microwave—introducing heat can cause the luscious filling to split or become rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought orange juice instead of fresh?

Freshly squeezed orange juice brings the brightest and most natural citrus note, but if you’re short on time, a good quality, pulp-free store-bought juice can stand in. Just choose one without added sugar for best results.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

A springform pan makes for easy release and clean slices, but you can use a regular 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment. Expect to serve straight from the pan instead of unmolding the entire cheesecake.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Slow cooling is key! Leaving your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar after baking helps prevent rapid temperature changes that cause cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter to keep it smooth.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap out the chocolate cookie crumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative. Make sure the other ingredients (especially the chocolate chips) are certified gluten-free as well.

Is it okay to leave out the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! The chocolate chips are just a fun bonus. The cheesecake will still be delightfully rich and chocolatey without them, so it’s totally up to your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake really is an experience—creamy, vibrant, and irresistibly decadent. Each bite is a reminder that a little bit of effort can bring big, joyful rewards. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch as it becomes your go-to dessert for years to come!

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 24 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 5 hours
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of chocolate and orange with this sumptuous Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Creamy, tangy, and perfectly sweet, it’s a dessert that will impress any crowd.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, mix together chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add in the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
- Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is well incorporated.
- Add cocoa powder, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix until blended, being careful not to overmix.
- If using, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Cool the Cheesecake:
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for another hour to cool slowly. This helps prevent cracking.
- After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Serve:
- Once chilled, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
- Slice and serve with whipped cream and garnished with fresh orange slices as desired.

Notes

For best results, bring the cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before starting.
Ensure not to overmix the batter to avoid a dense cheesecake texture.
Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide the best flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American