This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a dreamy, no-bake dessert that perfectly combines rich chocolate with the refreshing zest of orange. Each bite offers a smooth, creamy texture layered with chocolatey decadence and bright citrus flavor — ideal for any occasion or as a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a no-bake cheesecake, making it easy and fuss-free.
The chocolate and orange combination gives a perfect balance of richness and freshness.
Elegant enough for parties but simple enough for everyday indulgence.
Can be made ahead — perfect for entertaining or meal prepping.
Creamy, smooth, and irresistibly flavorful!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Base

200 g (about 2 cups) crushed chocolate cookies
100 g (½ cup) melted butter

Chocolate Layer

150 g (5 oz) dark chocolate, melted
100 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
1 tablespoon butter

Orange Cheesecake Filling

300 g (10 oz) cream cheese (at room temperature)
100 ml (½ cup) cream
100 g (½ cup) sugar
Zest of 1 large orange
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 teaspoons gelatin + 2 tablespoons water

Topping (optional)

Chocolate curls or shavings
Grated orange zest or slices for decoration

Optional Flavor Boost

1 teaspoon orange extract or a splash of orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier)

Directions

Prepare the Base:
Mix the crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter until evenly combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 20 cm (8-inch) springform pan.
Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
Make the Chocolate Layer:
Combine the melted dark chocolate, cream, and butter in a heatproof bowl.
Stir until smooth and glossy.
Spread the chocolate mixture over the chilled cookie base.
Refrigerate while preparing the cheesecake filling.
Prepare the Orange Cheesecake Filling:
Soak the gelatin in water for 5 minutes.
Beat the cream cheese, sugar, orange zest, and orange juice together until creamy.
Gently heat the cream, add the soaked gelatin, and stir until fully dissolved.
Combine the gelatin mixture with the cream cheese mixture and mix until smooth.
Pour the filling over the chocolate layer and smooth the top.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Add the Topping:
Before serving, decorate with chocolate curls, orange zest, or fresh orange slices.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 4–6 hours (or overnight)
Total time: About 6 hours 30 minutes

Variations

White Chocolate Orange Cheesecake: Replace the dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier version.
Chocolate Crust Alternative: Use chocolate graham crackers or digestive biscuits instead of chocolate cookies.
Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese, dairy-free butter, and coconut cream. Replace gelatin with agar-agar.
Mini Cheesecakes: Prepare in cupcake molds for individual servings.
Extra Citrus Kick: Add a bit of lemon zest for a tangier balance.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze the cheesecake (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Not applicable, as this is a chilled dessert. Serve straight from the refrigerator for best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake without gelatin?

Yes, you can use agar-agar or increase the cream cheese slightly for a firmer texture.

2. Can I bake the base for extra crunch?

Yes, bake the crust at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes, then cool completely before adding the layers.

3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less intense.

4. How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?

A minimum of 4 hours, but overnight chilling yields the best texture.

5. Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Fresh orange juice gives a brighter flavor, but store-bought juice works fine.

6. What size pan should I use?

A 20 cm (8-inch) springform pan is ideal for this recipe.

7. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made 1–2 days in advance. Keep it chilled until ready to serve.

8. How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free chocolate cookies or biscuits for the crust.

9. Why is my cheesecake layer runny?

It may not have chilled long enough, or the gelatin wasn’t dissolved properly.

10. Can I add other fruits?

Yes, berries like raspberries or strawberries pair beautifully with the chocolate and orange flavors.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake delivers the perfect harmony of rich chocolate and zesty orange in every bite. It’s creamy, refreshing, and indulgent — a dessert that impresses without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether for a festive gathering or a quiet treat, this no-bake cheesecake is a delicious way to delight any crowd.