Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe

This Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake combines smooth chocolate richness with a bright orange lift, set over a crisp biscuit base. The flavor is balanced—deep cocoa notes softened by citrus—making it a confident choice for celebrations, dinner parties, or a make-ahead dessert when you want something that feels special without being complicated. Prepared without baking and finished with a proper chill, it slices cleanly and holds its shape beautifully.

What Is Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake?

Mary Berry’s chocolate orange cheesecake is a chilled cheesecake that blends cream cheese, melted chocolate, and orange zest for a fresh, aromatic finish. Inspired by Mary Berry’s calm, practical style, the recipe focuses on smooth texture, clear flavors, and dependable results using straightforward steps.

Other Popular Mary Berry Recipes

• Mary Berry Tiffin
• Mary Berry Strawberry Mousse
• Mary Berry Apple Muffins

Why This Recipe Is Worth Trying

• Balanced flavor profile – Rich chocolate with a fresh orange note.
• No oven needed – Ideal for busy days or warm kitchens.
• Make-ahead friendly – Sets well overnight.
• Neat slices – Holds structure once chilled properly.
• Crowd-pleasing finish – Familiar flavors with a polished feel.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Digestive biscuits – 200 g, finely crushed
• Butter – 100 g, melted
• Full-fat cream cheese – 600 g
• Dark chocolate – 200 g, melted and cooled slightly
• Icing sugar – 75 g, sifted
• Double cream – 300 ml
• Orange zest – from 1 large orange
• Orange juice – 1 tablespoon
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Springform tin (20–23 cm) – Makes unmoulding easy.
• Mixing bowls – Keeps steps organised.
• Electric whisk – Helps create a stable filling.
• Spatula – For gentle folding and smoothing.
• Heatproof bowl – For melting chocolate safely.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Prepare the base – Combine crushed biscuits with melted butter and press firmly into the tin.
• Chill the base – Refrigerate for about 20 minutes until firm.
• Melt the chocolate – Melt gently and leave to cool slightly.
• Soften the cream cheese – Beat until smooth and lump-free.
• Sweeten and flavour – Mix in icing sugar, vanilla, orange zest, and juice.
• Add the chocolate – Stir in melted chocolate until evenly combined.
• Whip the cream – Beat to soft peaks in a separate bowl.
• Fold carefully – Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture.
• Set and chill – Spoon over the base, smooth the top, and chill until firm.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Grainy texture – Letting the chocolate cool slightly before mixing helped.
• Soft set – Whipping cream to soft peaks improved structure.
• Muted orange flavor – Fresh zest made a clear difference.
• Crumbly base – Pressing the base more firmly solved it.

Healthier Version of Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Darker chocolate choice – Higher cocoa content reduces sweetness.
• Reduced sugar tweak – Slightly less icing sugar still works.
• Thinner biscuit base – Cuts back on butter.
• Smaller slices served – Keeps portions balanced.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Graham crackers instead of digestives – Suitable base swap.
• Milk chocolate option – Softer, sweeter profile.
• Mascarpone blend – Adds extra richness if preferred.
• Gluten-free biscuits – For dietary needs.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Fresh berries – Add contrast and freshness.
• Lightly whipped cream – Softens the richness.
• Chocolate shavings – Enhances presentation.
• Orange segments – Reinforces the citrus note.
• Coffee or espresso – Complements the chocolate depth.

Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Use full-fat cream cheese – Ensures a firm set.
• Cool chocolate slightly – Prevents seizing.
• Whip cream to soft peaks – Avoids heaviness.
• Fold gently – Keeps the filling airy.
• Press the base firmly – Prevents crumbling.
• Chill long enough – At least 6 hours works best.
• Warm the knife before slicing – Gives clean edges.

Creative Ways to Customize Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake

• Chocolate biscuit base – Deepens cocoa flavor.
• Candied orange peel – Adds texture and aroma.
• Individual jar servings – Easy to portion.
• White chocolate drizzle – Softens the citrus edge.
• Nutty finish – A light sprinkle of toasted almonds.

Storing Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake the Right Way

• Chill fully before covering – Maintains structure.
• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps fresh for up to 3 days.
• Avoid strong fridge odors – Cheesecake absorbs smells easily.
• Freeze slices individually – Thaw slowly in the fridge.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake (If Needed)

This cheesecake is best served chilled. Let it stand at room temperature for a few minutes before serving rather than reheating.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: High
• Protein: Moderate from dairy
• Fat: High due to cream and chocolate
• Carbohydrates: From biscuits and sugar
• Calcium: Provided by cream cheese

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FAQs

Why is my chocolate orange cheesecake not setting properly?

Chocolate orange cheesecake usually stays soft if the cream is not whipped enough or low-fat cream cheese is used. Whip the double cream to soft peaks, use full-fat cream cheese, and chill the cheesecake for at least 6 hours so it firms up properly.

Should the melted chocolate be hot when mixing it in?

No, the chocolate should be melted and then allowed to cool slightly. Adding hot chocolate can cause the mixture to seize or turn grainy, which affects the final texture.

How strong should the orange flavour be in chocolate orange cheesecake?

The orange flavour should be subtle, not overpowering. Fresh orange zest provides aroma without excess liquid. Too much orange juice can soften the set, so keep the quantity small.

How long should chocolate orange cheesecake chill before slicing?

The cheesecake needs a minimum of 6 hours in the fridge, but chilling overnight gives the cleanest slices and best structure. Cutting too early can cause the filling to collapse.

Wrapping It Up

Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is a reliable, elegant dessert that balances richness with freshness. With simple steps, clear flavors, and a no-bake method, it fits comfortably into both everyday treats and special occasions.