If you’ve ever dreamed of combining rich chocolate with bright, zesty citrus, then this Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. It’s a beautifully balanced dessert where creamy cheesecake meets the bold flavors of orange and cocoa, delivering an indulgent yet refreshing treat. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or just craving something extraordinary, this recipe has a way of turning any moment into a celebration of flavor and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe serves a unique purpose, making the recipe straightforward but wonderfully effective. These essentials not only create the perfect cake structure but also add depth and brightness to every bite.
- Cream Cheese: The creamy base giving the cheesecake its smooth, rich texture and tang.
- Sugar: Sweetness that balances the brightness of the orange and bitterness of the cocoa.
- Eggs: They bind everything together and contribute to a delicate, custardy consistency.
- Orange Zest: Essential for that fresh citrus sparkle, infusing the entire cheesecake with a natural aroma.
- Cocoa Powder: Adds a deep, intense chocolate flavor without overwhelming the delicate orange notes.
- Heavy Cream: Enhances richness and ensures the cheesecake is luxuriously smooth.
- Flour: Just enough to give the cheesecake stability without compromising its softness.
- Butter: Melted and mixed in for a subtle richness that elevates every bite.
- Chocolate: Melted chocolate folded in for bursts of velvety chocolate indulgence.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warming background note that complements both chocolate and orange beautifully.
- Orange Juice: Provides a touch of acidity and moisture to brighten the whole dessert.
- Salt: A small pinch to heighten all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This moderate temperature ensures your cheesecake will bake evenly and gently. Next, prepare a springform pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well with butter to prevent sticking—this little prep work will make your life so much easier when it comes time to unmold the finished cake.
Step 2: Mix Your Batter
Using a mixer, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until perfectly smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Now comes the magic: gently fold in the orange zest, cocoa powder, flour, melted chocolate, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and orange juice. This combination creates a luscious batter that’s bursting with flavor and ooey-gooey goodness just waiting to be baked.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
If you want that ultra-silky texture, wrap your springform pan in foil for protection and set it in a larger baking dish. Pour some hot water into the dish so that it reaches halfway up the sides of the cake pan—this water bath method keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents cracking, giving you that flawless surface we all admire.
Step 4: Bake It Up
Pour your rich batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still has a gentle jiggle—just enough to promise creamy perfection inside.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
After baking, let the cheesecake cool at room temperature to avoid shocking the delicate structure. Once cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best. This resting time allows the flavors to harmonize and the cheesecake to fully set.
Step 6: Final Touches
Just before serving, garnish your Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe with elegant chocolate shavings and a sprinkle of fresh orange zest for that eye-catching pop. These simple toppings not only add texture but also highlight the stunning flavor duo you’ve created.
How to Serve Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
While the chocolate shavings and orange zest are classic garnishes, feel free to get creative. Candied orange slices, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate ganache can add extra flair and texture. The garnishes should always enhance the bold flavors without overpowering the creamy cheesecake itself.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries adds a tart contrast that livens up the dessert plate beautifully. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is also a perfect companion, bringing a cool softness that complements each forkful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique presentation, serve individual slices with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a small mint leaf for a pop of color and crunch. You can also transform the cheesecake into mini parfaits by layering broken pieces with whipped cream and orange segments in pretty glasses. These little presentations are show-stoppers at any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your finished Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy texture and helps the flavors stay vibrant, so you can enjoy the deliciousness well beyond the initial celebration.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, cheesecake freezes really well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to protect it from freezer burn and odors. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to maintain its luscious texture and flavor balance.
Reheating
Since cheesecake tastes best chilled, reheating is usually not necessary. However, if you prefer it slightly warmed, pop a slice in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This will soften the chocolate slightly and enhance the aroma of orange, making each bite extra cozy without sacrificing the cheesecake’s creamy integrity.
FAQs
Can I use regular baking chocolate or chocolate chips instead of melting chocolate?
Absolutely. If you only have baking chocolate or chocolate chips on hand, they will work perfectly. Just melt them gently over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring often to avoid burning.
Do I need to use a water bath for this cheesecake?
While not mandatory, using a water bath helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture wonderfully smooth. If you’re comfortable with your oven’s heat distribution, you can bake without it but monitor closely for any over-browning.
Can I substitute the orange zest with orange extract?
You can, but fresh orange zest brings a much fresher and brighter flavor. If using extract, start with just a small amount and adjust to taste since it can be quite concentrated.
Is it possible to make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe contains only a small amount of flour, so substitute that with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and you’ll have a gluten-free version that tastes just as delightful.
How long should I let the cheesecake chill before serving?
For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This resting period lets the cheesecake firm up perfectly and allows those delicious chocolate and orange flavors to meld together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe—it’s a perfect blend of rich chocolate and zesty citrus that feels like a celebration in every bite. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to impress friends, treat themselves, or simply enjoy a slice of pure joy. Give it a try, and I promise this cheesecake will become a cherished favorite in your dessert repertoire!
Print
Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 75 minutes
- Yield: 10 to 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Chocolate Orange Baked Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the bright, zesty flavor of orange and the deep indulgence of cocoa and melted chocolate. Baked in a water bath for a smooth, velvety finish, this elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a luscious, chocolatey treat with a citrus twist.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Base
- 24 oz (3 packages) Cream Cheese
- 1 cup Sugar
- 3 large Eggs
- 2 teaspoons Orange Zest
- ½ cup Cocoa Powder
- 2 tablespoons Flour
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients & Flavorings
- 4 oz melted Chocolate
- ½ cup Heavy Cream
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 tablespoons Orange Juice
- ¼ cup Butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a springform pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well with butter to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. This creates a creamy base for your cheesecake.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating after each addition to incorporate fully and maintain a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Flavors and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the orange zest, cocoa powder, flour, melted chocolate, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and orange juice into the batter. Mix carefully to combine all ingredients evenly without overmixing.
- Prepare Water Bath: If using a water bath (recommended for preventing cracks and ensuring even baking), wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from leaking in. Place the wrapped pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter into your prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it fully set and develop flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with chocolate shavings and additional orange zest for an attractive presentation and a boost of fresh flavor. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Using a water bath is crucial to achieve the creamy texture without cracks on the cheesecake surface.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter once the eggs are added to avoid incorporating excess air that might cause cracking.
- Chocolate shavings can be made from any semi-sweet or dark chocolate bar using a vegetable peeler.
- If you don’t have a springform pan, use a regular cake pan and line it with parchment for easier removal.
