Creamy and indulgent, this no-bake cheesecake combines rich dark chocolate with bright orange zest and juice for a refreshing citrus twist on a classic favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No baking required for the cheesecake filling—just a quick crust bake
The combination of dark chocolate and fresh orange creates a vibrant, balanced flavor
Smooth, creamy texture with a light and airy finish thanks to whipped cream
Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead entertaining

Ingredients

Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

• 24 oz full-fat cream cheese

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• Zest and juice of 2 large oranges

• 8 oz dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), melted and cooled

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 420 kcal per serving

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.

3. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.

4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and mix well.

5. Add orange zest and juice, stirring to combine.

6. Melt dark chocolate and let it cool slightly.

7. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.

8. Fold the melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture.

9. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully combined.

10. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top.

11. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.

12. Before serving, garnish with melted chocolate drizzle and fresh orange slices.

Serving Ideas

Serve chilled slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of orange zest.
Pair with a cup of coffee or a light dessert wine for a sophisticated finish.

Tips & Variations

Use blood oranges for a deeper color and slightly sweeter flavor.
Add a splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur to the filling for an adult twist.
Swap graham cracker crust for chocolate cookie crumbs for extra chocolate flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for make-ahead and can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before serving.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
You can, but dark chocolate provides a richer, less sweet balance to the citrus.

How do I prevent cracks in no-bake cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing and allow the filling to set slowly in the fridge to maintain a smooth texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake offers a delightful harmony of creamy chocolate and zesty citrus, perfect for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Light, refreshing, and indulgently smooth, it’s a must-try dessert for any occasion.