Name: Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 5 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (96g); 3/4 cup almonds, toasted and ground (82g); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 24 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature (three 8-ounce blocks); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar (157g); 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature; 1/4 cup frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed at room temperature; 1 1/2 tablespoons orange zest (preferably mandarin); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 small mandarin oranges, broken into segments (or 1 can (10 ounces) mandarin orange segments, drained); 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (24g); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re looking for a dessert that dazzles with bright citrus flavor and silky richness, this Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. Combining a buttery almond graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy filling studded with sweet mandarin segments, it’s a stunning treat that feels both luxurious and refreshingly light. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply craving an extraordinary sweet bite, this cheesecake brings a perfect harmony of texture and flavor that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven clear glass bowls and a clear glass measuring cup arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a medium bowl filled with square tan cookies with a slightly rough surface. Above it is another medium bowl filled with fluffy white whipped cream. To the right of the whipped cream is a medium bowl filled with colorful rainbow sprinkles in bright shades of red, blue, green, yellow, purple, and white. Below the sprinkles is a small bowl holding a rectangular block of white cream cheese. To the left of the cookies is a small bowl filled with fine white powdered sugar. Below that is a tiny bowl with amber-colored vanilla extract. Finally, at the bottom right is a measuring cup filled with white milk. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe is wonderfully straightforward, and each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the crunchy crust to the luscious filling and fluffy topping, here’s what you’ll want on hand:

Graham cracker crumbs (1 cup): Provides a classic, slightly sweet base with a tender crunch for the crust.
Toasted and ground almonds (3/4 cup): Adds a nutty depth that elevates the crust beyond ordinary.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup melted + 1/2 cup softened): Essential for binding the crust and enriching the cheesecake filling.
Cream cheese (24 ounces, softened): The heart of any cheesecake, delivering that creamy, dreamy texture.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the citrus notes.
Large eggs (4): Provide structure and richness, making the filling silky and stable.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tanginess and moisture for a tender bite.
Frozen orange juice concentrate (1/4 cup, thawed): Boosts the citrus flavor with an intense orange punch.
Orange zest (1 1/2 tablespoons): Ideally mandarin, for a fragrant, fresh aroma and bright flavor.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons total): Rounds out the flavors with subtle warmth and sweetness.
Mandarin oranges (3 small, segmented or 1 can drained): The star ingredient that adds juicy bursts and beautiful color.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): For creating the airy whipped topping that finishes the cheesecake with elegance.
Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the whipped cream topping delicately without grit.

How to Make Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, toasted ground almonds, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9-inch cheesecake pan or a springform pan with 3-inch sides. To get an even, compact crust, use a flat-bottomed measuring cup or glass as a pressing tool. Pop the crust into the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour to help it set firmly before adding the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Using a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese, softened butter, and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until silky smooth—this usually takes about 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until each is incorporated; overbeating at this stage can introduce unwanted air bubbles. Gently mix in the sour cream, thawed orange juice concentrate, mandarin orange zest, and vanilla extract. Lastly, fold in the mandarin orange segments carefully with a rubber spatula to keep that refreshing texture intact.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over your chilled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly golden brown and the center jiggles slightly when you give the pan a gentle shake. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool slowly inside. This gradual cooling helps prevent drastic cracks. When the oven is completely cool, transfer the cheesecake to a wire rack to reach room temperature. Don’t worry if the top cracks a bit—you’ll cover it with a luscious whipped topping that hides imperfections beautifully.

Step 4: Whip the Topping

Attach the whisk to your mixer and beat the heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed for about 30 seconds to start thickening. Then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, switching the mixer to low speed to combine smoothly. Increase the speed again and beat until stiff peaks form—this whipped cream will add a cloud-like, creamy contrast to your tangy cheesecake. Spread the topping generously over the fully cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for several hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and texture set perfectly.

How to Serve Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe

A close-up of a fork holding a small piece of a three-layer cake with light yellow cake layers separated by white creamy frosting mixed with colorful sprinkles in green, pink, blue, orange, and purple. The edges of the frosting and cake show some crumbs and loose sprinkles. In the blurry background, a larger portion of the same cake is visible on a white plate, set on a white marbled surface. The overall look is bright and colorful with soft textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To showcase the vibrant flavors and look of your Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe, consider topping it with extra fresh mandarin segments or a few sprigs of fresh mint for a pop of color. A light drizzle of orange syrup or a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest can also enhance the citrus brightness and make every slice look like a work of art.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light fruity wine such as Moscato. Fresh berries, like raspberries or blueberries, also offer a nice contrasting tartness that complements the smooth richness of the cheesecake filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in clear dessert glasses layered with extra mandarin segments and crushed almond cookie crumbs for a deconstructed twist. Alternatively, consider topping slices with a dollop of mandarin-infused whipped cream or even zest some candied ginger on top to add a subtle spicy zing. These presentation ideas bring some playful elegance to this classic dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe fresh by storing leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. Using plastic wrap or an airtight container helps prevent the cheesecake from absorbing other fridge odors and keeps the whipped topping light and fluffy for up to 4 days.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, this cheesecake freezes well. Remove any whipped topping first, then wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cheesecake can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

This cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so it does not require reheating. Allowing it to sit out for 15-20 minutes before slicing can improve the texture and bring the flavors to life.

FAQs

Can I use canned mandarin oranges instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned mandarin orange segments work perfectly in this Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe as long as you drain them well so excess liquid doesn’t affect the texture of the filling.

What can I substitute if I don’t have almonds for the crust?

You can substitute walnuts or pecans, toasted and ground, for a slightly different nutty flavor. Alternatively, omit the nuts for a simpler graham cracker crust.

Is this cheesecake recipe suitable for making ahead of an event?

Yes! Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe improves in flavor with a few hours or overnight refrigeration, making it an excellent choice for preparing ahead of time.

Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?

A regular 9-inch cake pan with higher sides will work, but a springform pan is recommended for easier removal without damaging the crust or sides of the cheesecake.

How can I avoid cracks on the top of the cheesecake?

A slow, gradual cooling process is key to preventing cracks. After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open to let it cool inside. Also, avoid overbeating the batter and do not overbake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a Mandarin Orange Cheesecake Recipe that combines creamy richness with refreshing citrus brightness, and I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself. Whether you’re new to cheesecake or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers an exciting twist that will brighten up any occasion. So gather those simple, beautiful ingredients and enjoy every joyful, luscious bite!