Chocolate Orange Cheesecake: Your New Favorite Dessert

Indulge in a decadent dessert that feels like a guilty pleasure but fits right into your Weight Watchers plan! This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake combines the richness of chocolate with the citrusy zest of orange in a creamy, light cheesecake that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup low-fat graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar-free sweetener

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
• 1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/3 cup sugar substitute (like Stevia or Monk Fruit)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs

For the Topping (Optional)

• 1 ounce dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), melted
• Orange zest or slices, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, applesauce, and honey. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the orange juice, orange zest, sugar substitute, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, being careful not to overmix.

Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly set and jiggles just a bit when shaken.
3. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 30 minutes. This helps prevent cracking.

Chill and Serve

1. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
2. Before serving, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top and garnish with orange zest or slices for a beautiful presentation.

Nutritional Information

(Per Slice: 1/8 of cheesecake)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• WW Points: ~4-6 (varies by specific brands used)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Guilt-Free Decadence: Satisfy your chocolate cravings without blowing your points.
2. Citrus Twist: The fresh orange flavor perfectly complements the rich chocolate.
3. High Protein: Greek yogurt and low-fat cream cheese make this dessert as nutritious as it is delicious.
4. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the eggs gently to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
• Lighten It Up More: Use fat-free cream cheese and skip the optional toppings to reduce points further.
• Make It Ahead: This cheesecake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat.
• Add a dollop of light whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
• Serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing dessert platter.

This Chocolate Orange Cheesecake is proof that you can enjoy rich, decadent desserts while staying on track with your health goals. With its creamy texture, vibrant citrus flavor, and chocolatey goodness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or simply treating yourself—dig in guilt-free!