Orange Glazed Cheesecake
A luscious cheesecake with vibrant orange flavor, topped with a sweet orange glaze, perfect for special occasions or citrus lovers seeking a rich, tangy dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine zwieback crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture onto the bottom and 1.5 inches up the side of an 8-inch spring-form pan.
- Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add 1 cup sugar, cocoa, and almond extract; mix well.
- Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Stir in sour cream until smooth.
- In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup sugar and cornstarch.
- Gradually add orange juice and orange-flavored liqueur to the sugar mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Pour the orange mixture into the cream cheese batter and mix until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 60 minutes or until the center is almost set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
- Serve chilled, optionally topped with additional orange glaze or fresh orange slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute zwieback crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookies. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. If you prefer a less sweet cheesecake, reduce the sugar in the filling by 1/4 cup. Incorporating the orange juice slowly prevents lumps, which is crucial for a smooth texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a drizzle of orange glaze or a sprinkle of grated orange zest for added flavor. Serve it alongside fresh berries or a scoop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast. It also complements a light salad, like Brussels Sprouts And Celery In Cheese Sauce, for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Glazed Cheesecake contains roughly 299 calories, with 4g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
While cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor, you can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta for a different taste. Keep in mind that the consistency may vary, so ensure it's blended until smooth.
How can I tell when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking to ensure a creamy texture.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it's well covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor. It actually tastes better after chilling, allowing the flavors to meld.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).