If you’re craving a rich, creamy dessert with a zesty twist, this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence. Combining the nostalgic flavor of Terry’s Chocolate Orange with a no-bake, velvety filling and a crunchy chocolate biscuit base, it’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want to wow your guests. The marriage of smooth chocolate and bright orange zest creates a dessert that’s both refreshing and decadent, all without turning on the oven.

chocolate orange cheesecake with Terry’s chocolate and orange zest

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a showstopper for many reasons. First, it’s completely no-bake—ideal for warm days or busy kitchens. Second, it features an irresistible flavor combo of rich chocolate and citrusy orange, often associated with festive indulgence. The creamy mascarpone filling sets perfectly in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dessert for entertaining. Plus, it’s family-friendly, visually impressive, and deeply satisfying with every bite.

Star Ingredients That Make This Dessert Shine

Chocolate Orange Biscuits: Provide a flavorful and crunchy base that complements the creamy filling
Terry’s Chocolate Orange: Adds authentic flavor and aroma; can be used in both the filling and decoration
Mascarpone Cheese: Offers a silky texture and rich flavor essential to the cheesecake body
Double Cream: Creates structure and lightness in the filling while enhancing creaminess
Golden Syrup or Orange Blossom Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness and citrus depth
Orange Zest: Brightens the flavor and gives a fresh finish to each bite
Unsalted Butter: Binds the crust and adds richness
Chocolate Chips (optional): Can be used if flavored chocolate isn’t available

Smart Swaps for Dietary Needs or Missing Ingredients

If you’re missing an ingredient or need a dietary tweak, here are some alternatives that work beautifully:

Digestive Biscuits or Oreos instead of chocolate orange biscuits for the base
Cream Cheese in place of mascarpone for a tangier profile
Dark Chocolate + Orange Extract as a substitute for chocolate orange bars
Maple Syrup instead of golden syrup for a natural sweetener alternative
Coconut Cream in place of double cream for a dairy-free version
Vegan Butter & Plant-Based Cream Cheese for a full vegan transformation

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake: Step-by-Step

  1. Prepare the Pan
    Lightly grease a 20cm loose-bottom cake tin with cake release spray. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Create the Biscuit Base
    Crush chocolate orange biscuits using a food processor or a ziplock bag and rolling pin. Combine crumbs with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the tin using the back of a spoon. Chill in the fridge or freezer while making the filling.
  3. Melt the Chocolate
    Break the chocolate orange bar into small pieces and melt gently with golden syrup using the double boiler method. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
  4. Beat the Cream & Cheese
    In a large mixing bowl, beat mascarpone and half the cream until just combined. Add the cooled chocolate and remaining cream, then whip until the mixture holds peaks and is fully smooth.
  5. Assemble the Cheesecake
    Spoon the filling over the chilled base. Smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring an even layer. Chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours—ideally overnight—for the best set.
  6. Add the Final Touches
    Melt more chocolate with butter using a double boiler. Once slightly cooled, drizzle over the set cheesecake and allow it to drip down the sides. Decorate with orange zest strips and Terry’s Chocolate Orange segments.
chocolate orange cheesecake with Terry’s chocolate and orange zest

Expert Tips for a Flawless Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Use full-fat mascarpone and double cream for the best texture and flavor
• Let the mascarpone come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps
• Ensure both the chocolate and cream mixture are at similar temperatures when combining
• Chill the cheesecake for a minimum of 6 hours, but overnight is ideal
• Use a hot knife for neat slices—dip in hot water, wipe dry, then cut

What to Serve With This Citrus-Chocolate Delight

Pair this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake with a light espresso, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of orange liqueur for a luxurious finish. For sides or toppings, try:

Candied Orange Slices
Chocolate Ganache Swirls
Cocoa-Dusted Whipped Cream
Toasted Almonds or Hazelnuts for a nutty crunch
Spiced Caramel Sauce for a warm flavor contrast

You can also create fun variations:

  • Gluten-Free Version: Use GF cookies for the base
  • Mini Cheesecakes: Make in muffin tins for individual servings
  • Festive Garnish: Add gold sprinkles or edible glitter for holiday celebrations
  • Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the chocolate for heat

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake for Every Occasion

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake isn’t just delicious—it’s versatile and celebration-ready. With its no-bake ease and make-ahead flexibility, it’s perfect for birthdays, Christmas dinners, or Sunday brunches. The orange-chocolate fusion feels both nostalgic and refined, appealing to kids and adults alike.

For anyone who loves creamy desserts, rich chocolate, or citrusy twists, this cheesecake is bound to become a new favorite. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a crowd-pleasing masterpiece that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, this Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a guaranteed winner. It combines the rich depth of chocolate with the bright, zesty punch of orange in a smooth, creamy no-bake dessert that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. With its showstopping presentation and unforgettable flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to time and again. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s become a go-to dessert for so many cheesecake fans.

FAQ About Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Can I make Chocolate Orange Cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This no-bake cheesecake is perfect for making in advance. Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight in the fridge. You can also decorate it several hours before serving. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to slice.

What can I use if I can’t find Terry’s Chocolate Orange?

If Terry’s Chocolate Orange isn’t available, substitute with a high-quality chocolate bar (milk or dark) and add ½ to 1 teaspoon of orange extract. Brands like Lindt Excellence Orange or Galaxy Smooth Orange are great alternatives that keep the citrus-chocolate balance.

Why is my cheesecake filling too runny or not setting?

There are a few potential culprits:
You may have used low-fat cream cheese or cream, which doesn’t set as well.
The chocolate may have been too warm or too cold when added, affecting texture.
The cheesecake may not have been chilled long enough—6 hours minimum, overnight is best.

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chocolate orange cheesecake with Terry’s chocolate and orange zest

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake


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  • Author: Zaza
  • Total Time: 9 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a rich, creamy, no-bake dessert made with Terry’s Chocolate Orange, mascarpone cheese, and a chocolate biscuit base. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for holidays, parties, or cozy evenings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 230g Oreo cookies or Chocolate Orange Bourbons – for a rich, crunchy base
  • 65g unsalted butter (5 tbsp), melted – binds the crust
  • 200g chocolate orange bar or 1¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – for the filling flavor
  • 5 tbsp golden syrup or orange blossom honey – adds citrus sweetness
  • 500g mascarpone cheese (or full-fat cream cheese) – gives the cheesecake its creamy base
  • 240ml double cream (1 cup, at least 40% fat) – provides structure and richness
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional) – enhances citrus aroma
  • 200g chocolate orange bar or chocolate chips – for the topping
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter – to melt with topping chocolate
  • 1 Terry’s Chocolate Orange (segments) – for decoration
  • Orange zest strips – for garnish
  • Chocolate sprinkles – optional decoration

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 20cm loose-bottom cake tin and line with parchment paper.
  2. Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin in a ziplock bag.
  3. Mix crumbs with melted butter until combined, then press into the base of the tin. Chill in the fridge or freezer.
  4. Melt the chocolate orange bar with golden syrup using a double boiler. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.
  5. In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone and half the cream until combined.
  6. Add melted chocolate and remaining cream. Beat until the mixture is smooth and holds peaks.
  7. Spoon the filling over the chilled base and smooth the top with a spatula. Chill for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  8. Melt topping chocolate and butter using a double boiler. Let it cool slightly.
  9. Remove cheesecake from the tin and peel off parchment. Smooth sides if desired.
  10. Drizzle topping chocolate over the cheesecake and allow it to drip down the sides.
  11. Decorate with orange zest strips and Terry’s Chocolate Orange segments.
  12. Slice using a hot knife for clean edges and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Use full-fat mascarpone or cream cheese for a firm, creamy texture.
  • Ensure the melted chocolate and cream mixture are at similar temperatures to avoid curdling.
  • Chill the cheesecake for a minimum of 6 hours; overnight yields best results.
  • Use a loose-bottom or springform tin for easy removal.
  • Clean the knife between slices for neat presentation.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 622
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 109mg
  • Fat: 53g
  • Saturated Fat: 25g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 26g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 97mg

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