Description
This Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert combining the zesty freshness of orange with smooth dark chocolate. Featuring a crisp graham cracker base and a luscious chocolate cheesecake filling, this recipe requires no baking and sets in the fridge, making it perfect for a quick yet indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Base
- 200 g graham crackers (or digestive biscuits)
- 75 g unsalted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 225 g dark chocolate (semi-sweet)
- 250 ml heavy cream (e.g. double cream)
- 450 g full-fat cream cheese (room temperature)
- 80 g white sugar (caster or finely ground)
- 2 ½ tsp orange extract
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Place the graham crackers or digestive biscuits into a food processor or blender and process until you achieve fine crumbs.
- Melt the butter: In a medium heatproof bowl, melt the unsalted butter using a microwave or stovetop method until fully liquid.
- Combine crumbs and butter: Stir the crushed cookie crumbs into the melted butter until completely combined.
- Form the base: Press the cookie mixture firmly into a lined tin or springform pan using the back of a spoon or measuring cup to create an even, compact layer. Place this in the freezer while preparing the filling to set.
- Melt the chocolate: Gently melt the dark chocolate either in a microwave in short 20-second bursts, stirring between intervals, or over a double boiler until smooth, then set aside to cool to room temperature.
- Whip the cream: Using an electric mixer or stand mixer, whip the cold heavy cream for several minutes until soft peaks form.
- Prepare cream cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the full-fat cream cheese with the white sugar, orange extract, and orange zest until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy.
- Incorporate chocolate: Gradually beat the cooled melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
- Fold in whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate and cream cheese mixture with a spatula until the mixture is smooth and no white streaks remain.
- Assemble cheesecake: Spread the chocolate orange filling evenly over the chilled cookie base, smoothing the top gently. Cover the cheesecake with cling film.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 3 hours or preferably overnight until it is firm to the touch.
- Serve and enjoy: Once set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the tin, decorate as desired, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Press the base firmly to avoid it crumbling when sliced.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- The cheesecake should be kept refrigerated and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
- Optional toppings include orange slices, chocolate shavings, or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
