zinabi zin Orange Mascarpone Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache
Craving a dessert that balances creamy sweetness with a hint of citrus? This Orange Mascarpone Cheesecake is your answer! Bursting with fresh orange zest and drizzled with rich chocolate ganache, it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Let’s create something delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream (for the cheesecake)
– 24 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– Zest of 2 oranges
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for the ganache)
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (for the ganache)
– Orange slices (for decoration)
– Chocolate shavings (for decoration)
– Fresh mint leaves (for decoration)
Instructions:
1. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure your cheesecake easily comes out later.
2. Let’s make the crust first! In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until all the crumbs are well coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes, then allow it to cool.
3. While the crust cools, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened mascarpone cheese until it’s velvety smooth. Gradually mix in the granulated sugar until it’s fully incorporated.
4. Add in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. One by one, add the eggs, making sure to beat well after each addition to incorporate air and create that fluffy texture.
5. Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over your cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. It’s time for baking! Cook for 60-70 minutes. The edges should be slightly golden, and the center will be just set. Once done, turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for an hour to cool gradually.
6. After that, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better—so it can set properly.
7. For the chocolate ganache, take a microwave-safe bowl and combine the dark chocolate chips with the 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring well until it transforms into a smooth, glossy ganache.
8. Once the cheesecake is chilled, pour the chocolate ganache over the top, smoothing it out for even coverage.
9. To finish, decorate your cheesecake with fresh orange slices, sprinkle chocolate shavings on top, and add a touch of freshness with mint leaves.
Nutritional Information:
Approximate values per slice (serving size: 1 slice):
Calories: 320
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 5g
Time: Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 60-70 minutes
