Orange Chip Cheesecake

Name: Orange Chip Cheesecake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8 servings.
Ingredients: 12 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon orange extract; 3/4 to 1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips; 1 chocolate crumb or graham cracker crust (9 inches); TOPPING:; 1-1/2 cups sour cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained; Additional chocolate chips

I love to adapt and mix recipes, which led to the creation of this creamy treat many years ago. It came to mind immediately when I was planning the orange theme menu. In this case, the distinctive citrus flavor is complemented by chocolate! —Susan West North Grafton, Massachusetts

Ingredients

12 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon orange extract
3/4 to 1 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
1 chocolate crumb or graham cracker crust (9 inches)
TOPPING:
1-1/2 cups sour cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
Additional chocolate chips

Directions

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, beat on low speed just until combined. Stir in salt and orange extract just until blended. Fold in chocolate chips. Pour filling over crust. Bake at 375° for 20 minutes or until center is almost set. Remove from the oven; increase temperature to 425°.
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, sugar and vanilla; spread over cheesecake. Bake 5 minutes longer. Cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Refrigerate overnight. Just before serving, garnish with oranges and additional chocolate chips.