If you are a fan of the irresistible combination of citrus and chocolate, then you’re going to adore this No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe. This dessert is a dreamy blend of silky cream cheese, zesty orange, and rich chocolate flavors, all nestled atop a crunchy chocolate cookie crust. It’s refreshingly easy to make, does not require an oven, and the balance of sweet and tangy in every bite is simply unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping treat for the holidays or a delightful weekend indulgence, this no-bake cheesecake brings both elegance and comfort to the table in one perfect package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a vital role in creating the luscious texture, vibrant flavor, and beautiful appearance of this cheesecake. From the buttery crust to the creamy filling infused with fresh orange zest, every element is there to make this dessert sing.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Use Oreo or chocolate graham crackers for a rich, fudgy base that adds great crunch and chocolate depth.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to bind the crumbs and create a buttery crust foundation.
- Cream cheese: Softened to silky smoothness, it’s the star of the creamy filling.
- Powdered sugar: Provides subtle sweetness and blends effortlessly into the cream cheese.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Orange zest: Fresh zest gives a bright, fragrant citrus punch that wakes up the palate.
- Fresh orange juice: Boosts the natural orange flavor and adds a juicy freshness.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to fluffy perfection to lighten the filling and add richness.
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate: Melted and folded in for that luscious chocolate ripple throughout the cheesecake.
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, orange zest curls, and chocolate shavings to decorate and add texture.
How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
Start by mixing the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted unsalted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until all crumbs are well coated with butter, ensuring the mixture is evenly moist without being soggy. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a sturdy base. Pop it into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the delicious filling.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth as velvet—this step is key to a creamy, lump-free texture. Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, freshly grated orange zest, and fresh orange juice, then mix until all flavors are combined harmoniously. The brightness of the orange combined with the silky cream cheese tastes like a dream in every spoonful.
Step 3: Whip and Fold in the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—a beautiful fluffy cloud of creamy texture that lifts the cheesecake. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula, preserving the airy texture without overmixing. This step makes the filling wonderfully light yet indulgent.
Step 4: Add Melted Chocolate
Carefully fold in the melted and slightly cooled semi-sweet or dark chocolate. The chocolate should swirl beautifully through the orange-flavored filling, creating delightful streaks of rich cocoa without deflating your fluffy mixture.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Pour the luscious filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least six hours, preferably overnight, allowing time for it to set to that perfect sliceable texture. Patience here rewards you with a sumptuous, firm yet creamy dessert.
How to Serve No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on each slice for an extra touch of creaminess. Curl some orange zest on top to enhance the citrus aroma and sprinkle chocolate shavings or drizzle ganache for drama and a decadent finish. These simple touches elevate the cheesecake from wonderful to wow!
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries, which add a tart contrast. For a cozy touch, serve alongside a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of espresso to balance its richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cheesecake into elegant mini servings in cupcake liners for a party, or layer the filling and crust in clear glasses for individual parfait-style treats. These creative presentations are sure to impress your guests while making dessert time even more fun and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten cheesecake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying leftovers or preparing in advance for gatherings.
Freezing
This No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe freezes well. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it gradually in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture retention.
Reheating
Since this cheesecake is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. Simply let frozen slices thaw in the fridge, and enjoy the cool, creamy texture just as intended.
FAQs
Can I use regular graham crackers instead of chocolate cookies for the crust?
Absolutely! Regular graham crackers will give a different flavor profile, lighter and less chocolatey, but still delicious. For this recipe, the chocolate crust really complements the orange and chocolate in the filling perfectly, so chocolate cookies are preferred if you want the full effect.
What if I don’t have fresh orange juice or zest?
Fresh orange juice and zest deliver vibrant, authentic flavor, but you can substitute with bottled orange juice and dried orange zest if needed. Just be cautious with dried zest as it can be more concentrated—start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Can I make this cheesecake dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on cream cheese and heavy cream, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for a vegan variation. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the classic version.
How do I get the filling firm without baking?
The secret is the chilling time. The cream cheese, heavy cream, and chocolate combine into a mixture that firms up beautifully in the refrigerator, setting into a sliceable cheesecake texture without needing to bake.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling is easy—just double all the ingredients and use a larger pan or two pans. Keep the same chilling time, but check for firmness before serving, as thickness may affect setting time slightly.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe is one of those magical desserts that feels luxurious without the fuss. It brings together flavors that dance on your tongue with every bite and a texture that melts delightfully in your mouth. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation, charming your family and friends with its rich yet refreshing charm.
Print
No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a luscious, creamy dessert that combines rich chocolate with bright citrus notes. Featuring a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, a smooth orange-infused cream cheese filling swirled with melted chocolate, and an optional decorative topping of whipped cream and chocolate shavings, this cheesecake requires no baking and is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo or chocolate graham crackers)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
For the topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Orange zest curls
- Chocolate shavings or ganache drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are fully coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Add the melted chocolate: Carefully fold the slightly cooled melted chocolate into the filling mixture until evenly incorporated, taking care not to deflate the mixture.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the prepared filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally top the cheesecake with whipped cream, orange zest curls, and chocolate shavings or a drizzle of ganache. Slice into 10 pieces and serve chilled.
Notes
- For a stronger orange flavor, add ¼ teaspoon orange extract to the filling.
- Use quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor profile.
- For an extra chocolatey touch, swirl additional melted chocolate on top before chilling.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
- Chilling time is essential for the cheesecake to set—do not skip or shorten it significantly.
