Cinnamon and Orange Cheesecake Recipe: A Delicious and Aromatic Dessert for All Occasions
Are you ready to indulge in a rich and creamy dessert with a unique twist? The Cinnamon and Orange Cheesecake combines the tangy sweetness of fresh orange with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a flavor-packed experience that will captivate your senses. With a crunchy chocolate cookie base and a smooth, velvety filling, this cheesecake is perfect for any celebration or a cozy family gathering. Let’s dive into the recipe, where each step will guide you to create this mouthwatering treat, sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Cinnamon and Orange Cheesecake
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chocolate Digestive Biscuits | 200g |
| Butter | 100g |
| Cream Cheese (softened) | 500g |
| Fresh Whipping Cream | 200ml |
| Orange Juice | 150ml |
| Sugar | 140g |
| Orange Zest | 15g |
| Gelatin Sheets | 10g |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Instructions for Making Cinnamon and Orange Cheesecake
Step 1: Preparing the Biscuit Base
To start off your cheesecake journey, begin by making the base. This crunchy layer will provide a perfect contrast to the smooth filling. First, take your chocolate digestive biscuits and place them into a food processor. Pulse until they’re finely crumbled into a powdery consistency.
Once the biscuits are ready, take a small saucepan and melt the butter over low heat. While the butter is melting, transfer the biscuit crumbs into a large mixing bowl. Gradually pour the melted butter over the crumbs, stirring continuously until the mixture is well combined. The consistency should be moist but not soggy.
Next, line the base of a springform pan (approximately 20 cm in diameter) with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of the cheesecake once it’s set. Press the biscuit mixture into the base of the pan, using the back of a spoon to compact it evenly, creating a firm crust.
Now, place the pan in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the crust to set and harden. Alternatively, you can speed up the process by placing it in the freezer for 10 minutes. During this time, you can start preparing the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Preparing the Creamy Filling
While the base is chilling, it’s time to focus on the cheesecake filling. Start by placing the cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer). Add the orange zest and begin mixing on medium speed. As the cream cheese softens, it will start to become creamy and smooth.
Next, slowly add the sugar, mixing until fully incorporated into the cream cheese. The mixture should be fluffy and smooth. At this point, add the fresh orange juice, which will give the filling a fresh, citrusy kick.
To enhance the flavor profile, add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This will give the cheesecake that delightful warmth and aroma. Keep mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Preparing the Gelatin and Whipped Cream
Now, let’s move on to setting the cheesecake filling with the gelatin. Take the gelatin sheets and place them in a bowl of cold water. Allow them to soften for about 10 minutes. After they’ve softened, squeeze out the excess water and dissolve the gelatin by gently warming it in a small saucepan. Be sure not to overheat it; the gelatin should dissolve completely without boiling.
While the gelatin is cooling, take the remaining fresh cream and whip it until soft peaks form. You can do this using a hand mixer or a stand mixer. The whipped cream should be light and fluffy, but not too stiff.
Step 4: Combining the Layers
Once the gelatin has cooled down, pour it into the cheesecake filling mixture and stir well to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Now, fold in the whipped cream gently. This will give the cheesecake filling a light and airy texture, balancing out the richness of the cream cheese.
Step 5: Assembling the Cheesecake
Retrieve the chilled biscuit base from the fridge. Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the biscuit base, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure it’s level. The filling should be creamy and spread easily over the base, creating a beautiful layer of soft, orange-infused goodness.
Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the cheesecake to firm up and the flavors to meld together, creating a perfect texture and taste.
Step 6: Serving the Cheesecake
Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and set, remove it from the springform pan. For added flair, you can decorate the top with a few slices of orange or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a more festive presentation.
Cut the cheesecake into 10 generous slices, and serve this delightful treat to your friends and family. Each slice is a perfect balance of rich creaminess, refreshing orange, and warming cinnamon. The biscuit base adds a satisfying crunch that complements the smooth filling beautifully.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon and Orange Cheesecake
- For a Stronger Orange Flavor: If you love a more intense citrus flavor, feel free to increase the amount of orange zest or juice to taste.
- Make it Ahead of Time: This cheesecake actually tastes even better the next day, so making it in advance is a great option for busy schedules or dinner parties.
- Gelatin Substitute: If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan option, you can substitute the gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based alternative. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package for the correct substitution ratio.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply swap the chocolate digestive biscuits for gluten-free cookies. There are plenty of gluten-free options available that work well for this base.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon and Orange Cheesecake
This cheesecake stands out because of its bright, citrusy flavor, perfectly balanced with the warm notes of cinnamon. The contrast between the crunchy chocolate biscuit base and the smooth, creamy filling is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a festive celebration, or just as a treat to enjoy at home, this dessert is sure to impress.
This Cinnamon and Orange Cheesecake is an ideal choice for those who want a dessert that’s both unique and indulgent, offering a fresh take on a classic favorite. With its easy preparation and stunning presentation, it’s guaranteed to be a showstopper every time you make it.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of orange and cinnamon in each creamy, heavenly bite. This cheesecake is a true treat for the senses!
