Description
This Orange Zest Chocolate Swirled Strawberry Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy, tangy, and fruity flavors, enhanced by bright orange zest and rich dark chocolate. It’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200 g (7 oz) Graham Crackers, Crushed: Finely crushed for a cohesive base.
- 85 g (6 tbsp) Unsalted Butter, Melted: Binds the crust together.
- 30 g (2 tbsp) Granulated Sugar (for crust): Adds subtle sweetness to the crust.
- 600 g (21 oz) Halal-Certified Cream Cheese, Softened: Full-fat for a rich texture.
- 150 g (3/4 cup) Granulated Sugar (for filling): Primary sweetener for the filling.
- 2 Large Eggs: Adds richness and structure.
- 120 g (1/2 cup) Halal-Certified Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and moisture.
- 1 tsp Alcohol-Free Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Orange Zest (for filling): Infuses citrus aroma and flavor.
- 300 g (10.5 oz) Fresh Strawberries, Hulled and Halved: Provides a fruity contrast.
- 150 g (5.3 oz) Halal-Certified Dark Chocolate (70% cocoa), Chopped: Adds decadent chocolate flavor.
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) Halal-Certified Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth chocolate ganache.
- 1 tsp Fresh Orange Zest (for ganache): Amplifies citrus notes.
- Pinch Sea Salt: Enhances flavors.
- Optional Garnish: Candied Orange Zest and 2 tbsp Toasted Almond Slivers: Adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F) and line a 23cm (9-inch) springform pan with parchment paper.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: Mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until resembling wet sand.
- Press and Bake Crust: Press mixture into the pan and bake for 10 minutes, until lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Eggs & Flavorings: Add eggs one at a time, then gently fold in sour cream, vanilla, and orange zest.
- Bake Cheesecake: Pour filling over crust and bake at 160°C (325°F) for 45-50 minutes, until edges are set but center wobbles.
- Cooling Process: Turn off oven, leave door ajar, and cool for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Prepare Ganache: Simmer cream and orange zest, pour over chocolate, and let sit for 1 minute.
- Whisk Ganache: Whisk until glossy and smooth, adding salt.
- Assemble & Garnish: Arrange strawberries, drizzle ganache, and garnish with orange zest and almonds.
Notes
Slow cooling is crucial to prevent cracking. Using high-quality ingredients will result in the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: cheesecake, strawberry, chocolate, orange, dessert, baking, halal, citrus, creamy, rich