Chocolate Ganache with Orange Mascarpone Cheesecake
A rich and bright cheesecake with an orange mascarpone layer, topped with a glossy chocolate ganache, perfect for special occasions or a cozy treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1/2 cup walnuts Toasted and finely chopped
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
Filling
- 450 g cream cheese At room temperature
- 225 g mascarpone cheese At room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs At room temperature
- 1 large orange zest From 1 large orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Optional, for firmness
Ganache
- 170 g dark chocolate Finely chopped
- 120 ml heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Toast the walnuts for 5–7 minutes, then chop or grind them finely.
- Mix the walnuts, graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 23 cm (9 inch) springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let the crust cool completely.
Prepare the Filling
- Reduce oven temperature to 160°C (325°F).
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese, mascarpone, and 1 cup sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing lightly after each addition.
- Fold in orange zest, orange juice, vanilla, and cornstarch if using.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool fully, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is better).
Prepare the Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream until it just boils.
- Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes.
- Stir gently until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for shine.
- Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.
- Chill for 30 minutes to set the ganache.
Serve
- Serve slices garnished with candied orange slices or a little grated chocolate.
Notes
For best results, use room-temperature cheeses and eggs. To prevent cracks, bake at a lower temperature and cool gradually. Consider variations like using milk chocolate for the ganache or adding Cointreau to the filling.