Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Delightful and Creamy Treat

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 large orange, zest and juice
• 0.5 cups sour cream
• 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted and cooled
• 1 tablespoon orange liqueur or extract (optional)
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, mix together chocolate graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue to mix until well blended.
3. Add the vanilla extract, zest, and orange juice to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until just incorporated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Do not overmix!
4. Gently fold in the melted dark chocolate and sour cream until the mixture is uniform in color and texture. If using, add the orange liqueur or extract.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle (it will firm up as it cools).
6. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set fully.
7. Before serving, whip some cream with a hint of powdered sugar and a splash of orange juice to garnish, if desired. Release the springform pan and carefully slice the cheesecake into wedges.