This Mary Berry chocolate orange cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert with a smooth, creamy texture and a bright citrus twist. The combination of velvety chocolate and fresh orange creates a perfectly balanced flavour that feels both luxurious and refreshing. It is a no-fuss bake that looks impressive but is simple enough for confident beginners. Allow around 30 minutes preparation time, plus chilling, for best results.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 200g digestive biscuits
- 100g unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 300g full-fat cream cheese
- 150g dark chocolate, melted and cooled
- 100g icing sugar
- 300ml double cream
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 100g dark chocolate, melted
- Orange zest or slices, for decoration
How to Make Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
- Prepare the base: Crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs and mix with the melted butter. Press firmly into the base of a lined 20cm springform tin. Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes to set.
- Melt the chocolate: Gently melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth. Add the melted chocolate, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the double cream to soft peaks. Fold it gently into the chocolate mixture until smooth and airy.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Spoon the filling over the chilled base and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Decorate and serve: Drizzle with melted chocolate and finish with orange zest or slices before serving.

Tips
How do I get a smooth cheesecake filling?
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a silky, lump-free texture.
Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Yes, but the cheesecake will be sweeter and less intense. Reduce the icing sugar slightly to balance the flavour.
Why is my cheesecake not setting?
It may need more chilling time. Always allow at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for a firm finish.
How do I enhance the orange flavour?
Add a little extra zest or a drop of orange extract for a stronger citrus note without making the mixture too runny.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream
- Add fresh berries for contrast
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea
- Drizzle with extra chocolate sauce for a richer finish
Storage
Room Temperature
Not suitable for storing at room temperature. Keep chilled to maintain texture and freshness.
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep covered to prevent it from absorbing odours.
Freezing
Freeze slices wrapped tightly in cling film for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Sodium: 210mg
Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the day before and chill overnight for the best texture and flavour.
Can I use a different biscuit base?
Absolutely. Try chocolate digestives or ginger biscuits for a slightly different flavour.
Do I need a springform tin?
A springform tin makes it easier to remove the cheesecake neatly, but you can use a lined loose-bottom tin if needed.
Can I make this without gelatin?
Yes, this recipe sets naturally from the whipped cream and chilling time, so no gelatin is required.
Mary Berry Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe
Course: DessertCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesA rich and creamy chocolate orange cheesecake with a buttery biscuit base and a smooth citrus-infused filling. Perfect for an elegant dessert.
Ingredients
200g digestive biscuits
100g unsalted butter, melted
300g cream cheese
150g dark chocolate, melted
100g icing sugar
300ml double cream
Zest of 1 orange
2 tbsp orange juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
Extra chocolate and orange zest for topping
Directions
- Crush biscuits and mix with melted butter. Press into tin and chill.
- Melt chocolate and allow to cool.
- Beat cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth.
- Mix in chocolate, orange zest, juice, and vanilla.
- Whip cream and fold into mixture.
- Spread over base and smooth top.
- Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Decorate with chocolate and orange before serving.
Notes
- Chill overnight for best results.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a firm texture.
- Decorate just before serving for a fresh finish.
