Nigella Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

Name: Nigella Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 200g Digestive biscuits; 100g Melted butter; 2 whole Terry’s Chocolate Orange (157g each); 500ml Double cream; 560g Full fat cream cheese; 100g Icing sugar; Half a lemon's juice; 2 tsp Orange extract (Optional); 100g White chocolate for decoration; 100ml Double cream for decoration; 12 pieces Terry’s Chocolate Orange for decoration; Orange gel food colouring

Delve into the rich, citrus-infused world of the Chocolate Orange Cheesecake, a dessert that marries the indulgence of chocolate with the zesty freshness of orange. This no-bake cheesecake, inspired by the iconic Terry's Chocolate Orange, offers a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake recipes, perfect for any occasion or simply as a treat to enjoy at home.

Brief Description of the Recipe

Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is an exquisite dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the bright, citrusy notes of orange in a creamy, decadent cheesecake. This no-bake recipe is straightforward and perfect for those who love the combination of chocolate and fruit.

Cultural or Historical Context

This cheesecake recipe draws inspiration from the beloved Terry's Chocolate Orange, a popular British chocolate product. The dessert is a modern take on classic cheesecake, incorporating this distinctive chocolate to create a dessert that's both familiar and novel.

Ingredients List for the Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

For the Base:
- Digestive biscuits (200g), Butter (100g, Melted)
For the Cheesecake Mixture:
- Terry’s Chocolate Orange (2 whole, 157g each), Double cream (500 ml, Whipped), Cream cheese (Full fat, 560g), Icing sugar (100g), Lemon juice (Half a lemon), Orange extract (2 tsp, Optional)
For Decoration:
- White chocolate (100g), Double cream (100 ml, Whipped), Terry’s Chocolate Orange pieces (12 pieces, About 1 whole Chocolate Orange), Orange gel food colouring

Preparation Instructions

Base Preparation: Start by crushing the digestive biscuits into a sandy texture. Mix these crumbs with melted butter and press the mixture into your chosen tin to form the base.
Cheesecake Mixture: Melt the Terry’s Chocolate Oranges gently and let cool slightly. Whip the double cream and mix it with cream cheese, icing sugar, lemon juice, and orange extract. Incorporate the melted chocolate into this mixture and pour over the biscuit base. Smooth the top and chill until set.
Decoration: Melt white chocolate and mix with a bit of orange food coloring. Drizzle over the cheesecake and garnish with whipped cream and chocolate orange pieces.

Storage and Reheating

This cheesecake should be stored in the refrigerator and is best enjoyed within a few days of making. Since it's a no-bake cheesecake, reheating isn't applicable, but ensure it's kept cool until serving.

Nutritional Information

Given the rich ingredients like cream cheese, chocolate, and cream, this dessert is high in calories and fat. For specific dietary needs, consider portion control or substitute ingredients where possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular oranges instead of Terry's Chocolate Orange? While Terry's Chocolate Orange provides a unique flavor, you can use orange zest or natural orange extract for a similar citrusy note in your cheesecake.
How long does it take for the cheesecake to set? It typically takes about 4-6 hours in the refrigerator for the cheesecake to set properly. For a firmer texture, you can leave it to set overnight.

Final Thoughts on Serving

Serve this luxurious Chocolate Orange Cheesecake as a show-stopping dessert at your next dinner party or gathering. Its blend of rich chocolate and zesty orange flavors is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

The original idea behind this delicious recipe draws from various interpretations and methods shared by passionate cooks and celebrated food enthusiasts. For those who adore the combination of chocolate and orange, exploring this recipe offers a delightful culinary adventure, perfect for any occasion.