A rich and zesty chocolate orange cheesecake combining smooth cream cheese, bold dark chocolate, and fragrant fresh orange zest. Ideal for holidays and elegant occasions.
For the crust:
200g chocolate cookies or digestives, crushed
75g unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
500g full-fat cream cheese, softened
200g dark chocolate (60–70%), melted
150g granulated sugar
150ml sour cream
Zest of 2 oranges
Juice of 1 orange (about 3 tbsp)
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool.
Melt chocolate and cool slightly.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, orange zest, juice, and vanilla.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Fold in melted chocolate.
Pour into crust. Bake in water bath for 55–65 minutes.
Cool in oven 1 hour, then chill overnight.
Garnish and slice with a warm knife to serve.
Add orange liqueur for deeper flavor.
Garnish with orange curls, whipped cream, or ganache.
Can be made up to 3 days ahead or frozen for later.