Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this orange cheesecake recipe! I still remember the first time I made it—my kitchen was filled with the most delightful citrus aroma, and I just couldn’t wait to dig in. This cheesecake is incredibly creamy, with a bright, tangy flavor that dances on your tongue. It’s the kind of dessert that instantly lifts your spirits, perfect for gatherings or just because you feel like treating yourself! Trust me, the combination of fresh orange juice and zesty orange peel takes this classic dessert to a whole new level. You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up something so deliciously impressive!
Ingredients List
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients come together to create a luscious, creamy orange cheesecake that’s bursting with flavor. Make sure to use fresh oranges for the best zingy taste!
How to Prepare the Orange Cheesecake Recipe
- First off, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This step is crucial for getting that perfect bake!
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until it resembles wet sand. This will be your crust!
- Now, press that mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure it’s even—this crust is the foundation of your cheesecake.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until it’s super smooth. You want to get rid of any lumps!
- Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. This helps the eggs blend in nicely without over-mixing.
- Next, stir in the sour cream, orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract. Wow, the smell is incredible!
- Pour this creamy filling over your prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
- Now, bake it in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Once done, take it out and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better—for that amazing texture!
Why You’ll Love This Orange Cheesecake Recipe
- Effortlessly easy to make, even for beginners!
- Rich and creamy texture with a refreshing citrus twist.
- Perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess—so delicious!
- Ideal for any occasion, from casual dinners to fancy gatherings.
- Can be made ahead of time, freeing you up for other tasks.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices for a stunning presentation.
This orange cheesecake is sure to impress everyone at the table, and I can guarantee they’ll be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success with Your Orange Cheesecake Recipe
To ensure your orange cheesecake turns out perfectly, here are some of my top tips! First, always use room temperature ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs. This helps achieve that smooth, lump-free filling we all crave. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as that can cause cracks in your cheesecake. When baking, place a shallow pan of water in the oven to create steam, which helps keep your cheesecake moist. After baking, let it cool gradually to room temperature before refrigerating—this reduces the risk of cracking. And if you can, let it sit overnight in the fridge; the flavor gets even better!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for each slice of this delightful orange cheesecake. You’ll find about 320 calories, with 22g of fat and 5g of protein. It also contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates and 20g of sugar. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. Enjoying this cheesecake in moderation makes it even more special!
FAQ About the Orange Cheesecake Recipe
Can I use a different type of citrus for this cheesecake? Absolutely! Lemon or lime would work wonderfully if you want to switch it up. Just adjust the zest and juice to your taste.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks? Oops! Cracks can happen if the batter is overmixed or if it cools too quickly. To prevent this, mix gently and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar.
How long can I store leftovers? You can keep your orange cheesecake in the fridge for up to a week, but trust me, it’s so delicious, it might not last that long!
Can I freeze the cheesecake? Yes, you can! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Do I really need to refrigerate it for 4 hours? Yes! Chilling helps it set properly and enhances the flavors. Patience is key here!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your leftover orange cheesecake fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for up to a week—if it lasts that long! If you’d like to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can enjoy a slice anytime you crave it! When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cheesecake, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight. No reheating needed—serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture!
Serving Suggestions for Your Orange Cheesecake Recipe
To elevate your orange cheesecake experience, consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top—that light, airy texture complements the creamy cheesecake perfectly! You could also add a sprinkle of extra orange zest for an added burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or a tangy raspberry coulis can create a delightful contrast to the citrus notes. For a refreshing touch, pair it with a side of mixed berries or a light fruit salad. Trust me, these additions will take your dessert to the next level!
For more delicious dessert recipes, check out Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Recipe and Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe.
Print
Orange Cheesecake Recipe: 7 Reasons to Love This Delightful Treat
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and tangy orange cheesecake that is easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in sour cream, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh oranges for the best flavor.
- Let the cheesecake sit overnight for better texture.
- Garnish with orange slices if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: orange cheesecake recipe
