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
Scale
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.
