Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this decadent chocolate cheesecake! This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of chocolate and cheesecake creates a heavenly flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is great for both novice and experienced bakers.
- This cheesecake is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days.
Ingredient Notes:
For the Crust:
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (such as crushed Oreos or chocolate graham crackers) provide a rich and crunchy base.
- Unsalted butter helps bind the crust together.
- Granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness.
For the Cheesecake:
- Semi-sweet chocolate adds depth to the cheesecake.
- Cream cheese gives the cheesecake its creamy texture.
- Sour cream adds tanginess.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Vanilla extract provides a hint of sweetness.
- Eggs help bind the cheesecake together.
For the Ganache Topping:
- Heavy cream creates a smooth and glossy ganache.
- Semi-sweet chocolate adds richness to the topping.
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder can be used for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the crust by combining the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the sour cream, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture.
- Gradually add the melted chocolate to the cream cheese mixture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and bake until set.
- Let the cheesecake cool before adding the ganache topping.
- To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream and pour over the chopped chocolate.
- Spread the ganache over the cooled cheesecake and garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder.
Helpful Tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother cheesecake batter.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent air bubbles.
- Chill the cheesecake in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving.
- For a cleaner slice, dip a sharp knife in hot water before cutting.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate and cheesecake flavors.
- Experiment with different cookie crumbs for the crust to customize the cheesecake.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this decadent chocolate cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a touch of freshness.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftover cheesecake in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days. To reheat, let the cheesecake come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate? Yes, but adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.
- How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake? Avoid overbaking and sudden temperature changes.
- Can I freeze this cheesecake? Yes, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Conclusion:
Treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible chocolate cheesecake recipe. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet craving, this dessert is sure to impress. Share your feedback and enjoy every decadent bite!
Print
Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 70 mins
- Total Time: 4 hrs
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream with this decadent chocolate cheesecake. A rich chocolate cookie crust holds a creamy, chocolate-infused cheesecake filling, topped with a luxurious chocolate ganache.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as crushed Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake:
-
- 10 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar
- 24 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
For the Ganache Topping:
-
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, cocoa powder, vanilla, and eggs. Mix in melted chocolate.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 55-60 minutes at 325°F. Let cool.
- Create the Ganache: Heat cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth. Pour over cooled cheesecake.
- Chill and Serve: Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours before slicing. Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder before serving.
Notes
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake filling.
- You can customize the crust with your favorite chocolate cookies.
- For a darker chocolate flavor, use bittersweet chocolate in the filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
