A tempting scent wafted through the air as my friend and I prepared for our annual holiday gathering—a gathering marked by laughter, love, and of course, delicious food. It was during these festive celebrations that I created my beloved Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake. This dessert is not only an absolute showstopper, combining a rich cocoa biscuit base with a velvety chocolate-orange cream cheese filling, but it’s also a breeze to make. Perfect for anyone, it caters to both traditionalists and plant-based eaters alike, ensuring no one misses out on this delightful indulgence. Best of all, there’s no need for an oven, making it an ideal pick for the busy holiday season. Curious about how to create this creamy, chocolatey masterpiece for your next celebration? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Cheesecake So Irresistible?

Effortless Indulgence: This Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake is the epitome of simplicity, requiring minimal effort and no baking.

Rich, Decadent Flavor: The pairing of chocolate and orange creates a flavor explosion that is both comforting and luxurious.

Vegan-Friendly Option: With the ability to easily substitute for dairy-free ingredients, this dessert ensures everyone can partake in the celebration.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers, this cheesecake is sure to impress both family and friends.

Convenient Make-Ahead: Prepare it in advance and let it chill overnight—saving you time on the day of your event.

For more delicious inspiration, check out our Cranberry Orange Chicken or treat yourself further with some delightful Chocolate Pretzel Cupcakes!

Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake Ingredients

For the Biscuit Base
• Biscuit of Choice (150g) – This forms the crispy foundation; digestive biscuits or Graham crackers work well, and vegan options are available.
• Cocoa Powder (1 tbsp) – It adds a rich chocolate flavor to the biscuit base; ensure it’s unsweetened for best results.
• Butter (2 tbsp) – This helps bind the base together; substitute with vegan butter for a plant-based option.
• Sugar (1 tbsp, granulated white) – Aids in sweetening the biscuit base; can be replaced with brown sugar for a subtle molasses flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Filling
• Cream Cheese (750g) – Provides the creamy texture essential for cheesecake; vegan cream cheese can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
• Icing Sugar (150g) – A sweetener that enriches the cream cheese mixture; consider using powdered coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
• Chocolate (300g) – The primary flavor component that brings richness; use half milk and half dark chocolate for balanced sweetness.
• Orange Extract (2 tsp) – Enhances the orange flavor; fresh orange zest can also be used for a brighter taste.

For Decoration
• Oranges (2, for decoration) – Optional fresh garnish to brighten the cheesecake; use thin slices or small chunks to decorate.

Get ready to impress your loved ones with this irresistible Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake that caters to all—your holiday gatherings will never be the same!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Orange No-bake Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep the Biscuit Base
Begin by gathering your equipment, including a food processor and a baking tin with a removable bottom. In the food processor, pulse 150g of your choice of biscuits until you achieve fine crumbs. Combine these with 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix it in until the crumb mixture is well-combined and holds together when pressed.

Step 2: Assemble Base
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking tin. Use a flat object, like a measuring cup, to ensure the crust is compact and well-formed. Once pressed down, set the tin aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the creamy filling, allowing the base to firm up slightly for a better texture.

Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 750g of cream cheese and 150g of icing sugar. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until smooth and creamy without any lumps. Next, gently melt 300g of chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, then mix it into the cream cheese mixture, followed by 2 teaspoons of orange extract. The filling should be rich and velvety.

Step 4: Combine and Chill
Take your chilled biscuit base from the fridge and pour the chocolate orange cream cheese filling over it, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Be sure to smooth the top for a neat finish. Cover the tin with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the Chocolate Orange No-bake Cheesecake to set properly.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve
Once the cheesecake is fully set, remove it from the refrigerator and carefully release it from the tin. Top your dessert with thin slices or small chunks of fresh oranges for a vibrant presentation. Slice into pieces, serve, and enjoy the delightful blend of chocolate and orange flavors in this decadent no-bake cheesecake!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake

Fridge: Keep your Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, covered with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in freezer bags to avoid freezer burn.

Thawing: To enjoy from the freezer, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight before serving, ensuring it retains its creamy texture.

Reheating: Serving cold is best for this cheesecake; avoid reheating as it can affect the delightful creamy consistency. Enjoy chilled and savor the unique chocolate-orange flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the biscuit base and filling up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that you save valuable time on the day of your gathering. Simply make the biscuit base, press it into your baking tin, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to add the filling. The cream cheese mixture can also be made ahead—just mix it together, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pour the filling over the chilled base, let it set for at least 4 hours (or overnight for optimal results), and add your fresh orange decoration just before serving for a vibrant touch!

What to Serve with Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake

As you prepare to serve this delightful dessert, consider these tasty accompaniments that will perfectly enhance your holiday gathering experience.

Fresh Berries: Their tartness adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy sweetness of the cheesecake, creating a well-rounded dessert experience.
Whipped Coconut Cream: This dairy-free topping offers a light and airy component that complements the richness of the cheesecake while keeping it vegan-friendly.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup brings out the rich chocolate notes, creating a cozy vibe. The robust flavors harmonize beautifully after a sweet indulgence.
Zesty Orange Salad: Combine fresh oranges with a dash of mint for a palate-cleansing side that echoes the cheesecake’s citrusy notes. This vibrant dish enhances the festive flair.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of shavings on top adds a luxurious and elegant touch, elevating the presentation while deepening the chocolate flavor even further.
Nutty Crunch: Serve alongside toasted almonds or hazelnuts for an added crunch that provides textural contrast against the velvety cheesecake. The nuts also bring warmth with every bite.
Cocoa-dusted Truffles: These little bites of decadence enhance the dessert theme and allow guests to indulge even further, embracing the harmony of chocolate and orange flavors.
Herbal Tea: An aromatic herbal tea provides a gentle finish and acts as a soothing conclusion to your dessert course, making for a well-rounded meal.
Festive Cake Pops: Bite-sized treats on a stick are fun and perfect for sharing at gatherings, inviting guests to enjoy another delightful bite alongside their cheesecake.

Embrace the joy of assembling these pairings with your Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake for a memorable gathering filled with flavorful harmony.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake

Base Quality Matters: Use fresh biscuits with no added flavors to ensure your base tastes just right. Stale biscuits can lead to a soggy texture.
Taste Test: Before pouring in the filling, taste the chocolate mixture. Adjust the sweetness by adding more icing sugar if necessary for a balanced flavor.
Set Time: Refrigerate overnight for the best texture. While 4 hours is adequate, longer chilling helps the cheesecake firm up beautifully.
Vegan Substitutions: If going dairy-free, ensure all ingredients, including the chocolate and butter, are vegan-friendly for a deliciously creamy cheesecake.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh orange slices add brightness and contrast. However, apply them just before serving to prevent any sogginess on the cheesecake surface.
Handling the Tin: Use a removable-bottom tin for effortless cheesecake removal—this prevents breaking and keeps your dessert looking perfect.

Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake Variations

Feel free to elevate the flavors of your cheesecake with these delightful adjustments that will tickle your taste buds and impress your loved ones.

**Vegan **: Swap the cream cheese for your favorite vegan cream cheese to keep it completely dairy-free while maintaining that luscious texture.
Fruit Medley: Add a layer of mixed berries on top for a vibrant and tangy contrast to the rich chocolate-orange filling.
Nutty Twist: Stir in finely chopped nuts like hazelnuts or almonds into the filling for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor.
Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the chocolate mixture for a refreshing, festive twist perfect for holiday gatherings.
White Chocolate Delight: Replace the dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, more decadent dessert that compliments the orange flavor beautifully.
Cocoa Powder Alternative: For a bolder berry flavor, use crushed chocolate graham crackers in the base instead of traditional biscuits, adding extra chocolatey goodness.
Spiced Warmth: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the biscuit base for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the holiday season.
Caramel Drizzle: Top your cheesecake with a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for an irresistible sweet finish that’s sure to please.

With these variations, you can customize the Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake to suit any occasion. For more indulgent ideas, consider trying our Moist Chocolate Chip or treat yourself with some delightful Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake!

Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate is best for this cheesecake?
I recommend using a combination of half milk and half dark chocolate to achieve a balanced sweetness that complements the richness of the cream cheese. Ensure the chocolate is of good quality for the best flavor impact!

How should I store leftover cheesecake?
Absolutely! You can keep your Chocolate Orange No-Bake Cheesecake in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and delicious.

Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator for several hours.

What if my cheesecake doesn’t set properly?
If your cheesecake hasn’t set well, make sure you’ve allowed it to chill for the full recommended time. If it’s still too soft, you can try placing it back in the fridge for a couple more hours. In the future, ensure your filling is mixed thoroughly but not over-mixed to avoid incorporating too much air.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely! This cheesecake contains dairy and chocolate, which are not safe for pets. If you have friends with allergies, be aware of the cream cheese, and opt for vegan substitutes as needed to ensure it’s suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or allergies. Always double-check ingredient labels to be safe!

Can I substitute any ingredients for a healthier version?
Very! You can use powdered coconut sugar instead of icing sugar for a less refined option, or switch the cream cheese for blended cashews or tofu for a lower-calorie, plant-based alternative. Each small change can make a big difference while keeping the lovely flavor intact.