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Blood Orange Cheesecake is a crowd-pleasing dessert that always feels like a celebration. The scent of fresh orange zest fills your kitchen while the creamy filling hits that perfect sweet spot between tangy and rich. With a cinnamon-kissed graham cracker crust and vibrant blood orange notes through every bite, it is as beautiful as it is delicious.
The first time I made this cheesecake for my book club, everyone asked for a second slice—and the recipe. The colors and flavors have made it my go-to holiday dessert ever since.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: This grounds the dessert and gives it a classic flavor Go for the honeyed kind and crush them as finely as you can for a crisp crust
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the filling Try to use fresh sugar without any lumps for a smooth result
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the crust Choose unsalted so you can control the flavor balance
- Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake Make sure it is softened completely for a creamy base Choose full-fat for best texture
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor Look for pure vanilla and avoid imitation
- Eggs: These hold the cheesecake together Use large eggs at room temperature so they blend seamlessly
- Blood orange juice and zest: Delivers the signature tang and vivid color Always use fresh blood oranges when you can and zest before juicing for maximum aroma
- Sour cream: Makes the filling impossibly smooth and adds just enough tang Full fat works best
- Red gel food coloring: Only if you want a dramatic color effect Just a little goes a long way
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan and Crust:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature so you have an even bake Place a strip of parchment on the bottom for easy release Combine your graham cracker crumbs sugar and melted butter in a medium bowl Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan Use the flat bottom of a glass for the tightest press so your crust will not crumble
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat your cream cheese until it is completely smooth Use a stand or hand mixer for this step so there are no lumps Add the remaining sugar and vanilla and whip until light and fluffy This stage matters since air in the mix keeps the baked cheesecake from feeling heavy
- Incorporate the Eggs and Add Citrus:
- Add the eggs one at a time mixing thoroughly after each so the batter stays silky When you add the blood orange juice and zest fold them in gently using a spatula If you are using food coloring add it now and stir until the tint is uniform
- Fold in Sour Cream and Fill the Pan:
- Now gently fold in the sour cream Do not overmix Pour the finished batter over your crust Tap the pan a few times on the counter to release any air bubbles Smooth the top with a spatula so your cheesecake bakes evenly
- Bake and Cool:
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for about an hour The center should still jiggle just a bit when you give it a shake Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked for an hour so it cools gradually This prevents cracks
- Chill and Garnish:
- Let your cheesecake finish setting in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight Just before serving sprinkle extra zest or arrange thinly sliced blood oranges on top for color and aroma
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Blood oranges are my favorite winter fruit Their deep color and sweet tang feel like sunshine on a gray day My niece loves to help zest them and the ritual of making this cheesecake together has become one of our family traditions
Storage Tips
Once cooled your cheesecake can be covered and kept in the refrigerator for up to five days I like slicing it before storing so it is ready to serve in a snap If you want to freeze it wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic and foil then let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator
Ingredient Substitutions
If blood oranges are hard to find use regular oranges or even ruby red grapefruit for an equally lively twist Greek yogurt can be swapped for sour cream Be sure to use full fat for best results No food coloring is needed if you want a subtle shade
Serving Suggestions
To make each serving special top a slice with whipped cream or a swirl of blood orange syrup The cheesecake pairs perfectly with black tea or espresso Around the holidays I like to scatter pomegranate seeds over the top for extra color
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Cultural and Historical Context
Cheesecake has roots dating back to ancient Greece but the addition of blood orange pulls in Mediterranean flavors and makes this classic American dessert feel bright and modern Blood orange season is short so this dessert is a wonderful way to celebrate the fruit at its best
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?
Regular oranges will work, but blood oranges lend a unique color and slightly floral flavor that sets this version apart.
- → What makes the crust special?
The crust combines graham cracker crumbs with cinnamon and melted butter, offering a sweet and spiced foundation for the filling.
- → How can I achieve a smooth, creamy texture?
Ensure the cream cheese is softened and mix thoroughly after each egg. Avoid overmixing once the batter is smooth and all ingredients are incorporated.
- → How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The center should be mostly set but still slightly jiggly. Cooling in the oven with the door ajar prevents cracks and helps maintain a creamy texture.
- → Is chilling after baking necessary?
Chilling allows the cheesecake to fully set and build flavor, producing the perfect dense yet creamy consistency everyone loves.
- → How can I garnish the cheesecake?
Try fresh blood orange slices, a sprinkle of blood orange zest, or a drizzle of citrus sauce for an irresistible finish.