No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

There’s something magical about the pairing of chocolate and orange. For me, no-bake chocolate orange cheesecake brings back cozy winter evenings at my grandmother’s house. She always had a flair for combining citrus and chocolate in her desserts, especially around the holidays when oranges were at their peak sweetness. This cheesecake became a family favorite not only because of its irresistible flavor but also because it required no oven — something we appreciated when the kitchen was already busy with roasts and baked treats.

The smooth, creamy texture of the cheesecake filling, kissed with fresh orange zest and rich chocolate, is layered over a crunchy biscuit base that adds just the right amount of contrast. Whether you’re making this for a festive gathering, a summer dessert when you want to avoid turning on the oven, or just to treat yourself on a quiet weekend, this no-bake cheesecake is sure to win hearts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no-bake chocolate orange cheesecake is more than just a dessert — it’s an experience. The combination of bittersweet chocolate and bright orange creates a sophisticated flavor, while the no-bake method keeps it approachable for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, it’s a make-ahead wonder, allowing you to prepare it the day before and simply pull it out when guests arrive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 10 ounces digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, whipped
• 1 1/4 cups dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled

How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the base
Start by combining the crushed digestive biscuits with the melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand. Press this firmly into the bottom of a springform pan lined with parchment paper. I like to use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to get a nice, even layer. Pop the pan into the fridge to set while you work on the filling.

Step 2: Make the filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice, mixing until well combined. This is where the cheesecake gets its fresh, citrusy aroma — I always take a moment to breathe in the bright scent of the orange as I stir.

Step 3: Add chocolate and cream
Gently fold in the melted dark chocolate, being careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the whipped heavy cream, which gives the cheesecake its light, mousse-like texture.

Step 4: Assemble the cheesecake
Pour the chocolate orange filling over the chilled biscuit base and smooth the top with a spatula. Return the cheesecake to the fridge for at least 4–6 hours, or preferably overnight, to set completely.

Step 5: Decorate and serve
Before serving, you can decorate the top with extra orange zest, chocolate shavings, or even slices of candied orange for a beautiful finish. Every time I slice into this cheesecake, I’m reminded of family celebrations and the delightful surprise on everyone’s faces when they taste the rich chocolate-orange blend.

Helpful Tips

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and richness.
• Make sure your melted chocolate is cool enough to fold into the filling without melting the whipped cream.
• Let the cheesecake chill fully; rushing this step will affect the set.
• A sharp knife dipped in hot water will give you clean, beautiful slices.

Details

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4–6 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 10–12 slices
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: European, Holiday
Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

This cheesecake can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving time. You can experiment with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste, but dark chocolate balances the orange perfectly for a more grown-up dessert.

Nutritional Information (per slice, estimated)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 19g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 24g
• Protein: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze no-bake chocolate orange cheesecake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely, though the cheesecake will be sweeter. Dark chocolate gives a more balanced, less sugary taste.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep the cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 1 month.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Raspberry Cheesecake Bites with Chocolate Crust
• No-Bake Orange Creamsicle Truffles
• Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Oat Cookie Bars
• No-Bake Watermelon Truffles

Conclusion

Whether you’re making this no-bake chocolate orange cheesecake for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something decadent, it’s sure to impress. With its silky texture, bright citrus notes, and rich chocolate flavor, this cheesecake is the kind of dessert that brings people together and creates lasting memories. Give it a try — I promise it’s easier than you think and every bit as delicious as it looks!

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