Chocolate Orange Cheesecake: Delicious Comfort!

Okay, here we go, fellow comfort seekers! I’m Beatriz from MommiesMore, and I’m so excited to share one of my family’s favorite desserts with you. This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a slice of pure happiness that has saved many hectic weeknights in my home. I remember the first time I attempted it. I was aiming for a sophisticated dessert for a small gathering, but what I got was so much more – a family favorite!

The zesty orange perfectly complements the rich chocolate, creating a balance that delights both kids and adults. My kids ask for it every chance they get! It has become a true comfort food win, satisfying cravings and bringing smiles all around. Let’s face it, sometimes you need that dinnertime win to make it through the week!

I perfected this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake over several attempts, tweaking the flavors and textures until it was just right for my family’s preferences. It’s all about finding the sweet spot, isn’t it? I’m thrilled to share my kitchen secrets with you, so you can bring this comforting dessert into your home too. Let’s get started on this simple, yet utterly satisfying Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. This is one sanity-saving comfort food that I think you’ll make again and again!

• For the Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (about 24 chocolate cookies)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• For the Filling:
  • 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 2 oranges
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled slightly
  • 3 large eggs

Trust me, this ingredient list for the most delicious Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity! You can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store. My family gets extra comfort when I add a little extra orange zest – it really brings out that citrusy flavor. This chocolate orange inspired dessert proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive.

If you don’t have chocolate cookies on hand, you can use graham crackers. Just add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to give it that chocolatey base! It’s a great comfort-focused ingredient swap. Here’s a Chocolate Orange Cheesecake comfort hack: I often melt the butter in the microwave to save time. It’s all about finding shortcuts that work for you!

Don’t underestimate the power of fresh orange zest! It brings such a vibrant aroma and flavor to the Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. Remember, good food doesn’t have to be complicated; it just needs to be made with love and good ingredients. You can also find helpful hints from other bakers online, such as on the Baking subreddit.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   I know, I know, baking! But trust me, this is so worth it.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter.

   Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

   This forms the base of your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake.

3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

   Make sure it’s compact and even.

   Use the bottom of a measuring cup to help press it down firmly.

4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes.

   This helps it set and prevents it from becoming soggy.

   While it’s baking, take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family!

5. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

   This is the foundation of a luscious Chocolate Orange Cheesecake.

   Here’s where I used to struggle with my Chocolate Orange Cheesecake: I’d always have lumps. Now I make sure the cream cheese is really soft!

6. Add the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice.

   Mix until well combined.

   Your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake should smell amazing by now, the orange and chocolate combination is wonderful.

7. Gradually add the cooled melted chocolate.

   Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

   Overmixing can cause cracks in your cheesecake.

8. Add the eggs one at a time.

   Mixing well after each addition.

   Don’t worry if your Chocolate Orange Cheesecake looks a little thin at this point. It will set up beautifully in the oven.

9. Pour the filling over the baked crust.

   Spread evenly.

   In my busy kitchen, this comforting Chocolate Orange Cheesecake usually takes about an hour to prepare. I prep the ingredients while the kids are doing homework.

10. Bake for 55-70 minutes.

    Or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.

    Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!

11. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.

    This prevents cracking.

    Trust me on this one; it’s a key step for a perfect Chocolate Orange Cheesecake.

12. Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator.

    Chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

    This allows the flavors to meld together and the cheesecake to fully set.

Enjoy every single bite of this delicious Chocolate Orange Cheesecake. I know you will, my family always does! You can also check out this other recipe for Pecan Pie Cheesecake!

The kids devour this comforting Chocolate Orange Cheesecake when I serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh orange slices. This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast! It’s also a winner at potlucks and holiday gatherings. Everyone always asks for the recipe!

Sometimes I drizzle a little extra melted chocolate over the top just before serving. It makes it look extra fancy. For a seasonal variation, try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts in the fall or some fresh berries in the summer. This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake reminds me of another family favorite: Chocolate Orange Cheesecake – Keep Calm And Eat Ice Cream.

Leftovers (if there are any!) are great for breakfast the next day. Don’t judge! Or, crumble them over yogurt for a quick and easy dessert. I like to cut the cheesecake into individual slices and freeze them for a single-serving treat whenever the craving hits. I saw someone share their orange and dark chocolate cheesecake recipe on Facebook and it inspired me!

For presentation, a simple dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar adds a nice touch. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can create chocolate shavings with a vegetable peeler and sprinkle them on top. Just remember, the most important thing is that it tastes amazing! This orange infused cheesecake is sure to be a family favorite.

• Is this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake really filling enough for growing kids?

  Absolutely! The combination of the rich cheesecake filling and the chocolate crust makes it a satisfying treat. Serve it with a side of fruit for a balanced dessert.

• What if my picky eater won’t try this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake?

  I get it, picky eaters can be tough! Start by offering them a small bite with a dollop of whipped cream. You can also try making mini cheesecakes in individual cups to make it more appealing. It’s worth a try, this chocolate citrus dessert is sure to be a winner!

• Can I meal prep this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake for busy weeks ahead?

  Yes! This cheesecake is perfect for meal prepping. You can bake it on the weekend and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Or, freeze individual slices for a quick and easy dessert whenever you need it.

• Can I make this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake no-bake?

  Yes, you can adapt this to a no bake chocolate orange cheesecake! Use a store-bought graham cracker crust. For the filling, make sure the melted chocolate is fully cooled and use gelatin to help set the cheesecake.

• What if I don’t have oranges? Can I substitute with something else?

  While the orange flavor is key, you could try substituting with lemon zest and juice for a lemon chocolate cheesecake. It won’t be the same, but it will still be delicious! A simple substitution can make the recipe accessible no matter what.

• Is it possible to use a different type of chocolate?

  You can totally experiment with different types of chocolate! Dark chocolate will give it a more intense flavor, while milk chocolate will make it sweeter. Feel free to adjust to your family’s preferences.

• My cheesecake cracked! What did I do wrong?

  Cracking is common, don’t worry! Make sure you cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door ajar. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can incorporate too much air.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

  Yes! Simply use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust. There are many great options available at most grocery stores.

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s a way to bring a little bit of comfort and joy to your family’s day. It’s about creating those special moments around the table, where everyone can relax and enjoy each other’s company. It supports my family’s comfort food goals because it’s both delicious and relatively easy to make. You do not have to bake this cheesecake either! A no bake chocolate orange cheesecake version is also delicious!

My Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Comfort Hacks:

• Melt the butter in the microwave to save time.
• Use pre-grated orange zest for extra convenience.
• Cool the cheesecake overnight for the best flavor and texture.

My family loves this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake in so many different ways. My son prefers it with extra whipped cream, while my daughter likes a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. My husband enjoys it plain, savoring the simple flavors. Some family-tested Chocolate Orange Cheesecake variations include adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top or swirling in some orange marmalade into the filling.

I hope you’ll try this recipe and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to create a Chocolate Orange Cheesecake that your family will love. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your cozy chaos. I wish you many dinnertime wins and sweet moments with your family! Go ahead, try this satisfying Chocolate Orange Cheesecake and bring a little bit of sunshine into your home. You’ve got this!