A rich and creamy chocolate orange cheesecake with a smooth texture and bold citrus-chocolate flavor, topped with optional ganache for extra indulgence.
Crust:
1½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp granulated sugar
Filling:
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup sour cream
3 large eggs
8 oz dark chocolate, melted and cooled
2 tbsp orange zest
3 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping (optional):
½ cup heavy cream
4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
Candied orange slices or zest curls for garnish
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
Combine crust ingredients and press into pan. Bake 10 minutes. Cool.
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well.
Add sour cream. Mix on low until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Stir in melted chocolate, orange zest, juice, and vanilla.
Pour over crust. Tap pan to release air bubbles.
Place pan in water bath. Bake 55–65 minutes, until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.
Cool in oven with door ajar 1 hour. Then cool completely at room temp. Chill 6 hours or overnight.
For ganache: heat cream, pour over chocolate, stir until smooth. Pour over chilled cheesecake. Garnish if desired.
Use full-fat cream cheese for best results. Do not overmix once eggs are added. A water bath and gradual cooling help prevent cracking.