Chocolate Cheesecake

A Slice of Heaven: Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that isn’t just good, but absolutely divine? Chocolate cheesecake is the kind of rich, creamy delight that makes every bite feel like a luxurious treat. With its velvety texture and deep chocolate flavor, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something sweet at home, this chocolate cheesecake will steal the spotlight.

Here’s a fun fact: Did you know that cheesecake can be traced back to ancient Greece? The Romans even made a version of it! But we’re here to enjoy the modern-day twist—chocolate! This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, and you can whip it up in no time, making it an excellent choice for families in need of quick and enticing desserts. If you’re already a fan of my classic vanilla cheesecake, then you’ll definitely want to dive into this chocolatey variation. Let’s get started on this irresistible treat that promises to please young and old alike!

What is Chocolate Cheesecake?

So, what’s in a name? Well, “chocolate cheesecake” is pretty much the best combination of words ever, right? Imagine a dessert so rich that it could make a grown adult weep with joy—true story! Why is it called cheesecake, you wonder? Because it’s a combination of cheese (the creaminess comes from cream cheese), sugar, and a crust that just begs to be savored.

Here’s a thought: Since chocolate is involved, could we say that chocolate cheesecake truly has magical properties that spark joy? After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this cheesecake just might enchant everyone in the household. Ready to let this dessert charm its way onto your table? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cheesecake:

Chocolate cheesecake stands out for three main reasons. First, it boasts an incredibly rich and luscious chocolate flavor that envelops your taste buds in a heavenly embrace. Imagine slicing through a perfectly set cheesecake where chocolate and creaminess collide; it’s like tasting a dreamy chocolate cloud!

Second, making this exquisite cheesecake at home saves you money compared to ordering it from a bakery. For the price of a slice at a fancy cafe, you can create an entire cheesecake that will serve a family gathering or a special occasion. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of homemade desserts—plus, you get to impress your friends and family!

Lastly, let’s not forget the toppings! A simple drizzle of chocolate ganache, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of fresh berries can elevate your cheesecake from great to extraordinary. Just like my vanilla bean cheesecake, this chocolate version offers endless possibilities for toppings and add-ons. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to whip up your own chocolate cheesecake masterpiece!

How to Make Chocolate Cheesecake

Quick Overview

Making chocolate cheesecake is surprisingly straightforward, even for those new to baking. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes (plus some chill time in the fridge), you’ll be diving into a slice of creamy goodness before you know it. The combination of a buttery crust and the decadent filling creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet remains approachable for all skill levels.

Key Ingredients for Chocolate Cheesecake:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
   • Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes then let cool.
2. Make the Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add in the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
   • Pour in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract; mix until incorporated.
   • Add the sour cream and mix until smooth.
   • Finally, add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed to ensure they’re well blended but do not over-mix.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
   • Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
4. Chill the Cheesecake:
   • Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour to prevent cracking.
   • Remove from oven and let it cool fully at room temperature before transferring to the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

What to Serve Chocolate Cheesecake With:

Chocolate cheesecake is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can enhance your dessert experience. Consider serving it with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness. You could also opt for a scoop of vanilla ice cream to contrast the deep chocolate flavor or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add some sweetness. Fancy a cup of coffee or herbal tea? Those beverages go perfectly alongside this decadent dessert, too!

Top Tips for Perfecting Chocolate Cheesecake:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother filling.
2. Don’t Overbeat: While mixing your filling, avoid overbeating once the eggs are added, as this can lead to cracks in your cheesecake as it bakes.
3. Water Bath Method: For extra creaminess and to minimize cracking, wrap the outside of your springform pan in aluminum foil and bake it in a water bath.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Leftover chocolate cheesecake? Yes, please! You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

When ready to enjoy again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For those who appreciate warmed treats, you can slice portions and briefly microwave them for a few seconds to enjoy a slightly gooey texture.

With all that said, are you excited to dive into this rich and creamy chocolate cheesecake recipe? I know I am! So gather your ingredients, grab your favorite baking tools, and let’s create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every creamy bite of chocolatey bliss!

Chocolate Cheesecake

Indulge in a rich, creamy chocolate cheesecake that's perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crust and decadent chocolate filling, this dessert is sure to impress.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Dessert, Sweet

Cuisine: American, Baked

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the crust

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs Use finely crushed crumbs for a better texture.
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted Ensure it's completely melted for even mixing.

For the filling

• 1 cup granulated sugar This adds sweetness to the cheesecake.
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened Make sure it's at room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup sour cream Adds tanginess and creaminess to the filling.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted Melted before adding for a smooth filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 3 large eggs Use at room temperature for better incorporation.

Method

 

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes then let cool.

Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add in the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Pour in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract; mix until incorporated.
4. Add the sour cream and mix until smooth.
5. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed to ensure they're well blended but do not over-mix.

Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.

Chill the Cheesecake

1. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the oven door. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour to prevent cracking.
2. Remove from oven and let it cool fully at room temperature before transferring to the fridge for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

Notes

For perfect cheesecake, use room temperature ingredients, avoid overbeating, and consider using a water bath to minimize cracks. Top your cheesecake with fresh berries, whipped cream, or chocolate ganache for extra flavor!