Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a showstopping dessert that combines luscious creaminess with deep chocolate flavor, Chocolate Cheesecake is the answer to your baking dreams. It’s rich, silky, and undeniably elegant—with a crisp chocolate cookie crust, a decadently smooth filling, and a shiny ganache blanket draped over the top. Whether for a special celebration or a simple craving, this Chocolate Cheesecake delivers the absolute best of both worlds: classic cheesecake and pure, chocolatey bliss in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a handful of simple yet essential ingredients stand between you and your new favorite indulgence. Each one plays a special role, from the cookies adding crunch beneath the creamy filling to the rich chocolate elevating every layer with irresistible depth.

• Chocolate cookie crumbs (1 1/2 cups/150 g): These become the bold, flavorful base of the crust—try Oreo cookies (without the filling) for best results.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup/60 g, melted): Binds the crumbs together and gives the crust a deliciously tender bite.
• Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons for crust + 1 cup/200 g for filling): Adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect cheesecake texture and flavor.
• Cream cheese (24 ounces/680 g, softened): The heart of this cheesecake, creating the luxuriously smooth and creamy filling.
• Eggs (3 large): Essential for setting the cheesecake and creating an irresistibly silky structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor note to create a balanced, aromatic base.
• Semi-sweet chocolate (8 ounces/225 g for filling + 6 ounces/170 g for ganache): Melted into both the filling and the glossy ganache for rich chocolate flavor throughout.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup/120 ml): Adds tang and an extra-creamy consistency that sets this cheesecake apart.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup/120 ml for filling + 1/2 cup/120 ml for ganache): Delivers a velvety texture and gives the ganache its signature shine.
• Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon, for ganache): Finishes the ganache with a buttery smooth sheen.
• Chocolate curls or shavings (optional): Perfect for a beautiful presentation and an added layer of chocolate indulgence.
• Whipped cream (optional): Lightens each slice with a cloud of creamy sweetness—totally worth it!

How to Make Chocolate Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust

Let’s start by setting the stage for all that decadent filling: preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and a touch of sugar until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this luscious mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s even for a sturdy base. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool while you whip up the star of the show—the filling.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until the mixture is silky smooth and impossibly creamy. Take your time here to avoid lumps. Next, add the eggs one by one, mixing gently after each for a velvety result. Stir in vanilla extract, letting its aroma infuse the batter. Now comes the magic: fold in the melted semi-sweet chocolate until every bit is beautifully marbled. To finish, gently blend in the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing just until everything is combined into a glossy, perfectly smooth batter.

Step 3: Bake the Chocolate Cheesecake

Pour the chocolatey batter over your cooled crust, smoothing the top for even baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes—look for edges that are set and a center that still jiggles slightly (that’s perfection!). When time’s up, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool slowly inside for about an hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent unsightly cracks. Now transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. The wait is so worth it!

Step 4: Make the Ganache Topping

For that glossy, restaurant-ready finish, heat heavy cream until it just starts to simmer. Pour it over your chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute or two, then stir until the chocolate and cream become one silky dream. Add butter for a final flourish of shine and richness. Let this mixture cool until it’s still pourable but not piping hot.

Step 5: Top and Decorate

Pour the cooled ganache over your chilled cheesecake, coaxing it into an even layer with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Pop the pan back in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes so the ganache sets to a gorgeous, sliceable finish. Before serving, let your creativity shine with chocolate curls, shavings, or a swirl of whipped cream. Then, all that’s left is to slice, serve, and savor every creamy, chocolate-infused bite!

How to Serve Chocolate Cheesecake

Garnishes

Garnishing your Chocolate Cheesecake is the fun part—let your inner artist run wild! Chocolate curls, shavings, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder add instant elegance. If you like a contrast in texture and flavor, fresh berries or a swoosh of whipped cream turn every slice into a mini celebration.

Side Dishes

While this cheesecake is a star on its own, pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a handful of fresh raspberries, or even a bold shot of espresso makes the whole experience extra memorable. For a real dinner party treat, drizzle plates with raspberry coulis or caramel sauce before serving the cheesecake.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow a crowd, consider slicing the Chocolate Cheesecake into neat bars for a more modern feel, or use mini springform pans to create adorable individual servings. You can also serve it on vintage cake stands or elegant white platters, and play up the drama with contrasting berries or edible flowers as a finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Chocolate Cheesecake at peak flavor and texture, store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious and creamy for up to five days—though we doubt it’ll last that long.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully! Once cooled and set, wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake (without garnishes) tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before adding the final touches and serving.

Reheating

Chocolate Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you like it with just a touch of warmth, leave a slice at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the creamy texture and the shine of your beautiful ganache topping.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter, milder flavor, milk chocolate can be substituted for semi-sweet in both the filling and ganache. Just remember, it will make the cheesecake sweeter overall, so you may want to dial back the added sugar slightly.

What if my cheesecake cracks on top?

Don’t worry—cracks happen to the best of us! Slow cooling and avoiding overmixing help, but if a crack appears, simply cover it with ganache and garnishes. No one will ever know, and the taste will be just as incredible.

Can I make Chocolate Cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s actually best made in advance! The flavors develop as it rests, and chilling overnight ensures a perfect, sliceable texture. You can even make it two days ahead before adding the ganache and garnishes.

Should I use a water bath for this recipe?

A water bath is optional. It helps insulate the cheesecake and reduce the risk of cracks but is not required for this recipe. If you’re an extra-cautious baker, place the springform pan in a larger pan and add hot water halfway up the sides before baking.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

For the creamiest and richest results, stick with full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat versions can yield a thinner filling and may not set as well, but if you must, just be aware of the texture difference.

Final Thoughts

If you’re passionate about chocolate and adore a dreamy, creamy dessert, you owe it to yourself to try making this Chocolate Cheesecake. Each step builds pure decadence, and seeing the smiles when you serve it is its own reward. I can’t wait for you to slice into your first masterpiece—enjoy every single bite!

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