Exquisite Orange Cheesecake Squares

These Exquisite Orange Cheesecake Squares combine the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake with the bright, refreshing flavor of fresh orange. With a zesty orange topping and a buttery crust, they are the perfect dessert for spring or summer celebrations!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz each) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
• ½ tsp orange extract (optional)

For the Orange Topping:

• 1 cup (240ml) fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 orange
• Orange slices or zest for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid, even crust.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the crust is golden and set. Remove from the oven and let cool while preparing the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
2. Add vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing until combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until incorporated.
4. Stir in sour cream and orange extract (if using). Mix until smooth.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
3. After cooling, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Prepare the Orange Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine fresh orange juice, cornstarch, and sugar. Stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
2. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest. Let cool slightly before pouring over the chilled cheesecake.
3. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, pour the orange topping over the top of the cheesecake squares, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

1. Slice the cheesecake into squares.
2. Garnish with fresh orange slices, extra orange zest, or edible flowers for a beautiful finishing touch.
3. Serve chilled for a refreshing, citrusy dessert experience.

Tips for Success:

• For a Smoother Topping: Strain the orange juice to remove pulp before making the topping.
• Perfect Cheesecake Texture: Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven to avoid cracks, and refrigerate for several hours to ensure it sets perfectly.
• Flavor Variations: For a deeper citrus flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cheesecake filling.

These Exquisite Orange Cheesecake Squares are refreshing, tangy, and perfect for anyone who loves citrus-flavored desserts.  Would you like ideas for variations, or perhaps a gluten-free version?