Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Cake

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that wins over even the toughest critics at my table. Creamy rich and zesty sweet it strikes the perfect balance between indulgent chocolate and lively orange. When citrus season rolls around this no bake cheesecake is always my go to for celebrations or spontaneous weeknight treats.

When I first tested this recipe it was for a birthday and everyone loved it so much there were no leftovers to enjoy the next day. Now this cheesecake is my family’s most requested dessert.

Ingredients

• Digestive Biscuits: these create a crunchy flavorful base and are best when they are fresh and not stale
• Unsalted Butter: binds the crumb base together and adds richness creamy European style butter works well
• Cream Cheese: forms the smooth tangy filling choose full fat for best texture and flavor
• Caster Sugar: sweetens the filling without any grittiness look for extra fine for easy blending
• Double Cream: adds lushness and stability go for the freshest cream for a cloud like texture
• Orange Zest: brings real citrus zing use bright glossy oranges for maximum oil and flavor
• Orange Extract: intensifies citrus notes a pure extract gives the best aroma and taste
• Dark Chocolate: provides deep cocoa notes look for high quality chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa solids and glossy finish

Instructions

Crush the Biscuits:

Finely crush digestive biscuits using a food processor or use a sealed bag and a rolling pin until you have even crumbs. Mix these with melted unsalted butter in a large bowl combining until no dry crumbs remain. Press the mixture evenly into a lined 23cm springform tin and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes which ensures a sturdy base.

Whip the Filling:

Place softened cream cheese and caster sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat them together until you have a pale smooth mixture with no lumps. Gradually add cold double cream whisking until the consistency is thick but not stiff it should hold soft peaks and look glossy.

Add Citrus and Flavor:

Fold in orange zest and orange extract using a gentle motion to ensure the entire filling is perfumed and flecked with zest avoid over mixing to keep the filling airy.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the biscuit base smoothing the top with a palette knife or spoon. Drizzle the melted dark chocolate in ribbons across the top letting it settle naturally for a marbled finish.

Chill and Set:

Cover the filled tin tightly with cling film to avoid picking up fridge odors. Let the cheesecake rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight so the texture becomes firm and slices neatly.

Finish and Serve:

When ready to serve carefully loosen the tin and lift the cheesecake onto a plate. Garnish with fresh orange zest or chocolate shavings for extra style and flavor dimension. Slice with a sharp hot knife for clean edges.

Orange zest is my secret weapon in this recipe. Sometimes I put the whole family to work zesting oranges just for the smell it fills the kitchen and gets everyone excited for dessert.

Storage Tips

This cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Place it in an airtight container to prevent the filling from picking up other fridge flavors. For longer storage you can freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to a month.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap digestive biscuits for graham crackers or shortbread if those are easier to find in your area. For a tangier twist use mascarpone in place of some cream cheese or swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate to suit anyone who prefers milder flavors. Plant based cream cheese and coconut cream will also work for a dairy free version.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake makes a stunning finish for a festive meal and pairs nicely with coffee or an orange liqueur on the side. Add a handful of fresh berries or a few orange segments to each plate for a pop of refreshing contrast and a beautiful presentation.

Cultural and Seasonal Context

The chocolate and orange flavor pairing is celebrated in British baking and shows up in holiday desserts and sweets across Europe. During winter citrus season I love using fresh oranges from the farmers market but in summer a dash of extra extract ensures a bold and lively taste. My grandmother always made an orange cake for special occasions and this cheesecake came out of my wish to combine her tradition with my own chocolate obsession.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use blood oranges for a beautiful pinkish hue in winter Add candied orange peel for extra sparkle during the holidays Top with fresh berries and edible flowers for a springtime makeover

Success Stories

A friend once made this cheesecake for a Christmas potluck and was asked for the recipe by half the guests. Another time I brought it to a summer barbecue and it was gone before the grill had even cooled down. The secret really is letting that citrus shine.

Freezer Meal Conversion

This recipe freezes and thaws surprisingly well. Slice into portions wrap each one tightly in plastic then freeze. To serve just transfer the wrapped slice to the fridge and let it defrost overnight. A quick rest at room temperature softens it perfectly before serving.

Letting the cheesecake set overnight gives you perfectly neat slices and rich flavor. This dessert is guaranteed to impress at any gathering.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I achieve a smooth cheesecake texture?

Beat the cream cheese and sugar until fully combined and creamy, then whisk in the double cream gradually. Avoid over-mixing to prevent air bubbles.

→ Can I substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter finish, though dark chocolate enhances the citrus balance.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

→ Does the base need baking?

No baking is needed. Simply chill the biscuit and butter base in the refrigerator to set it before adding the creamy topping.

→ Can I enhance the orange flavour further?

Warm the orange zest gently in butter before folding into the cheese mixture for a more intense citrus aroma and taste.

→ Is it necessary to use a springform tin?

A springform tin makes it easier to release the chilled cheesecake and maintain its shape, resulting in a neat presentation.