Name: Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with Candied Orange Slices and Chocolate Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 9 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups Oreo crumbs (36 whole Oreo cookies, crushed); 4 tablespoons melted butter, cooled; ⅛ teaspoon sea salt; 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; 1 orange, zested; 24 oz cream cheese, softened (680g); 3 large eggs; ½ cup sour cream, room temperature; ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract; 2 oranges; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 ½ cup water; ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips; ¼ cup heavy whipping cream; ⅛ teaspoon sea salt; 8 slices Terry chocolate orange; 8 slices candied orange

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 5 reviews

If you are searching for a dessert that perfectly balances rich, creamy chocolate with bright, zesty orange, look no further than the Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with Candied Orange Slices and Chocolate Ganache Recipe. This show-stopping masterpiece delivers layers of flavor and texture, from the crunchy Oreo crust to the silky chocolate-infused cheesecake filling, all topped with luscious chocolate ganache and beautifully vibrant candied orange slices. It’s a dessert that feels festive yet approachable, ideal for celebrations or whenever you want to treat yourself and friends to something truly special.

Ingredients You'll Need

A slice of chocolate mousse cake sits on a white plate with a gold spoon holding a bite-sized piece in front of it. The cake has three layers: a bottom dark chocolate crust, a thick middle layer of light brown chocolate mousse with a smooth texture, and a glossy dark chocolate ganache on top. The top is garnished with a bright orange slice and two half chocolate-covered orange wedges, one placed upright and the other lying on the side. In the background, a cake stand holds the rest of the cake with a missing slice, and a glass bottle of milk and orange slices are visible, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Crafting this decadent cheesecake is surprisingly simple thanks to a handful of essential ingredients, each contributing its own magic — the Oreo crumbs create a crisp base, the cream cheese and chocolate build luscious richness, and the fresh oranges add a lively citrus burst. Get ready to gather these ingredients that bring together a symphony of tastes and textures.

3 cups Oreo crumbs: Using crushed Oreos provides a chocolatey, crunchy foundation that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.
4 tablespoons melted butter: This helps bind the crust together firmly while adding subtle richness.
⅛ teaspoon sea salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors throughout the cheesecake.
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: The heart of the cheesecake’s chocolate flavor, melting smoothly into the filling.
½ cup heavy whipping cream: Used both for melting chocolate and in the ganache to create luxurious textures.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and also rubs together with orange zest to infuse citrus flavor.
1 orange zested: Fresh zest provides fragrant, tangy notes that cut through the richness.
24 oz cream cheese, softened: The creamy base that defines the cheesecake’s signature smoothness.
3 large eggs: They add structure and help set the cheesecake beautifully.
½ cup sour cream, room temperature: Adds a slight tang and keeps the texture silky and moist.
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Brightens the filling with natural citrus acidity.
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances depth of flavor and rounds out the profile.
2 oranges: For making the stunning candied orange slices that crown the cheesecake.
2 cups granulated sugar + 1½ cup water: To create the syrup that softens and sweetens the orange slices.
8 slices Terry’s chocolate orange: For an extra chocolatey, nostalgic touch when assembling the cake.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with Candied Orange Slices and Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 355°F (180°C) and greasing your springform pan with some cold butter. Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs — using a food processor makes this quick and easy, but a rolling pin and bag work just as well. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and sea salt until well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the greased pan, spreading it evenly and pushing some crumbs halfway up the sides for a sturdy crust. Bake it for 12 minutes to set the base perfectly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

For that luscious chocolate flavor, melt your semisweet chocolate chips with half a cup of heavy cream in a heat-safe bowl over simmering water. Stir gently until smooth, then let it cool to room temperature so it’s ready to be incorporated into your cheesecake filling without scrambling the eggs later on.

Step 3: Infuse Sugar with Orange Zest

In a large mixing bowl, blend the granulated sugar, sea salt, and orange zest using your fingers; rubbing the zest into the sugar releases its fragrant oils and colors the sugar a delicate orange hue. This simple step elevates the citrus notes throughout your cheesecake.

Step 4: Build the Cheesecake Filling

Add softened cream cheese to the scented sugar and mix thoroughly until completely smooth. Then, incorporate eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully blended before adding the next. Once smooth again, gently mix in your melted chocolate, sour cream, vanilla extract, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Scrape down the bowl’s sides to ensure an even batter, then pour this luscious filling into your prepared crust and smooth the top carefully.

Step 5: Bake with a Water Bath

To keep your cheesecake extra creamy and prevent cracking, place the springform pan in a slightly larger round pan, then put both inside a large rectangular baking dish. Pour boiling water around the pans to create a gentle water bath. Bake at 355°F (180°C) for 60 to 75 minutes until the edges are set but the center still wobbles slightly. Leave the oven door open for 20 minutes before removing the cake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for perfect setting.

Step 6: Make Candied Orange Slices

Slice your oranges thinly and evenly, about ⅛ inch thick. Simmer sugar and water in a wide pot until syrupy. Carefully place the orange slices in the syrup and simmer gently for 20 minutes, flipping them regularly for even translucence. Drain on a cooling rack so excess syrup drips off, then refrigerate any extras for future uses or garnish.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream with a pinch of salt until just simmering. Pour it over semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let it meld for seven minutes before whisking until the ganache is glossy and smooth. This will be your decadent final topping.

Step 8: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Pour the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake and spread it towards the edges. Arrange alternating Terry’s chocolate orange slices and candied orange slices around the cake’s perimeter for a stunning, mouthwatering presentation. Chill briefly for the ganache to set before slicing and sharing.

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with Candied Orange Slices and Chocolate Ganache Recipe

The image shows a round chocolate cake with three visible layers on a white marbled cake stand with a wooden base. The bottom layer is dark brown and dense, the middle layer is lighter brown with a smooth texture, and the top layer is glossy dark chocolate. The cake is decorated with alternating slices of bright orange and round dark chocolate pieces placed neatly around the top edge. In the foreground, there is a white plate with a fork and knife resting on it, and in the background, there is a blurred bottle of milk and half an orange on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Besides the featured candied orange slices and chocolate orange wedges, try sprinkling finely grated orange zest or a dusting of cocoa powder for added visual appeal and flavor bursts. A few fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream also make for beautiful, refreshing accents.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs beautifully with light, fresh accompaniments such as a mixed berry salad, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or even a simple espresso. The contrast helps balance the richness of the cheesecake while complementing its citrus-chocolate profile.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual cheesecake slices topped with mini candied orange wheels and a drizzle of ganache in clear dessert cups. Another idea is to create a layered trifle bowl with crumbled crust, cheesecake filling, and layers of candied oranges and whipped cream for a playful and interactive dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with Candied Orange Slices and Chocolate Ganache Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days when tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making leftovers a pure delight.

Freezing

You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it carefully in plastic wrap and foil to protect it from freezer burn. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then add the ganache topping fresh before serving.

Reheating

This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. If you prefer a room temperature slice, simply remove it from the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors and texture to soften slightly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While Oreos offer a great chocolate punch and texture, you can substitute with chocolate sandwich cookies or graham cracker crumbs depending on your preference. Just make sure to adjust the quantity if the crumbs are coarser.

What is the best way to prevent cheesecake cracks?

Using a water bath, as in this recipe, helps maintain gentle heat and moisture, preventing cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar.

Can I make the candied orange slices ahead of time?

Yes, candied orange slices can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes the day of assembly stress-free and efficient.

Is there a substitute for sour cream in the filling?

If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt or crème fraîche works well as an alternative, providing a similar tang and creaminess.

How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?

For the best texture and flavor development, chill the cheesecake for at least 8 hours or, ideally, overnight. This ensures a firm set and the perfect balance between the chocolate and orange notes.

Final Thoughts

Making the Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with Candied Orange Slices and Chocolate Ganache Recipe is a joyful culinary adventure that rewards you with a dessert fitting for special moments or quiet indulgences alike. It’s creamy, zesty, and chocolatey all at once, wrapped in an irresistible presentation. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a whirl — it might just become your new favorite dessert to share with loved ones!