hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping Recipe

If you’re searching for an ultra-decadent dessert that elicits pure joy in every bite, then this hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping is about to become your new favorite. Imagine a fudgy brownie crust topped with a silky, chocolate-infused cheesecake and draped in a glossy layer of ganache — a flavor and texture trio that’s pretty much irresistible. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or just treating yourself at home, each forkful offers layers of deep cocoa flavor and creamy luxury. Rich, spectacular, and guaranteed to wow, this is one recipe worth bookmarking…and bragging about!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping lies in simple, classic ingredients that blend together for unforgettable results. Each one brings its own personality to the table, from the rich chocolate and cream cheese to the lush heavy cream. Let’s break down just why you need every single one:

• Brownie Mix: The boxed brownie mix creates a reliably fudgy crust and provides the perfect chocolatey foundation for the creamy cheesecake.
• Eggs, Oil, and Water: Follow the box directions here — they ensure your brownies bake up moist and hold together under the cheesecake.
• Cream Cheese (3 packages, 8 oz each): The superstar that gives your cheesecake its trademark rich, velvety texture and subtle tang.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer without overwhelming the chocolate’s depth.
• Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and a gentle zing, ensuring your filling stays perfectly tender and smooth.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Elevates all the flavors, adding a warm, aromatic undertone.
• Large Eggs (4): Bind everything together and give structure to your cheesecake.
• Semisweet Chocolate (8 oz, melted): Melting and mixing real chocolate into your batter takes the flavor to dreamy new heights.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): For the ganache, this brings luscious silkiness and helps achieve that shiny, pourable finish.
• Chopped Semisweet Chocolate (8 oz): Turns your cream into a beautiful ganache — don’t skimp on quality here!

How to Make hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9-inch springform pan, lining the bottom with parchment for easy release. Mix your favorite box brownie batter exactly as directed on the package, then pour it into the pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes — you want it mostly set but still a little soft in the center so it melds into the cheesecake layer later. Set aside and let it cool down slightly. Drop your oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) for the next step.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until super smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and vanilla, mixing until just combined — don’t overdo it! Then, add your eggs one at a time on the lowest speed, scraping the bowl as you go. Finally, stir in the melted semisweet chocolate, blending until every bit of your filling is luxuriously chocolatey and uniform.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour your cheesecake mixture straight over the (mostly cooled) brownie crust. Now, it’s time for a gentle water bath—this helps your hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping bake evenly without cracking. Set your springform pan in a bigger roasting pan and pour hot water in the outer pan until it comes halfway up the sides. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center looks just set and has lost its wet shine. When the oven timer dings, switch it off, open the door a bit, and let the cake cool gradually inside for an hour.

Step 4: Chill Thoroughly

Lift your cheesecake out of the roasting pan, carefully remove the foil (if you used any to protect from leaks), and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better!). This patience pays off — cooling completely means every slice comes out gorgeously clean and the texture is just right.

Step 5: Add the Ganache Topping

Now for the glossy finale! Heat your heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just starts to simmer. Pour it over your chopped chocolate and let everything stand for two minutes, then gently stir until you’ll get a smooth ganache. Spread this over your chilled cheesecake in an even layer and return to the fridge till the ganache sets (about 30 minutes). When you’re ready, remove from the springform pan, slice, and serve your masterpiece!

How to Serve hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping

Garnishes

This show-stopping cheesecake needs little help, but a few thoughtful garnishes can turn every slice into a work of art. Try a dusting of cocoa powder, a sprinkle of chocolate curls, or a handful of fresh berries for a pop of color and brightness. Whipped cream piped along the edge adds an airy contrast to all that chocolatey richness.

Side Dishes

Balance out each dazzling forkful with sides that bring freshness or crunch. Consider a bowl of tart raspberries, sliced strawberries, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Lightly toasted nuts like pecans or almonds add a delightful snap if you want a little textural contrast to your hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get playful, try serving this decadent dessert in individual mini jars or glasses for a party-ready treat. You can also cut the cheesecake into bite-sized squares for a dessert table or layer cubes into parfaits with whipped cream and berries. However you serve it, each version of hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping is sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cheesecake stores beautifully! Simply wrap the springform pan (or individual slices) in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The texture stays rich and creamy, and the flavors meld together in the most delightful way. It’s perfect for making ahead when you have a big event on the horizon.

Freezing

For longer storage, your hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping freezes surprisingly well. Chill completely, then wrap tightly in two layers of plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and you’ll have a dessert that tastes fresh-baked!

Reheating

While cheesecake is at its best served chilled or slightly cool, if you prefer a softer bite, just let a slice rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before eating — the flavors become even more pronounced. Avoid microwaving, as it can compromise the smooth texture of both cheesecake and ganache.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter for the crust?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it instead of a boxed mix. Just be sure to bake it until almost set, following the time guidance in this recipe, so it doesn’t get too dry or crumbly under the cheesecake.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

A gentle water bath is key — it surrounds your cheesecake with steam for even baking and helps prevent cracks. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and let the cake cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar before moving it to the fridge.

Can I make hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free brownie mix for the crust. Every other component of this cheesecake is naturally gluten-free, so you can serve it to gluten-sensitive friends with confidence.

What kind of chocolate works best for the cheesecake and ganache?

Semisweet chocolate is recommended for both layers because it strikes a lovely balance between sweet and deep cocoa flavor. Use a good-quality bar or chocolate chips for the richest taste in your hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping.

How long does it take to make from start to finish?

Counting prep, baking, and chilling time, you’ll need about 5 hours and 45 minutes — but most of that is hands-off. You can double-check the recipe steps to break up the work and make ahead for parties or special occasions!

Final Thoughts

If your dessert dreams involve a melt-in-your-mouth blend of brownie, cheesecake, and chocolate ganache, then you simply have to try making hocolate Cheesecake with Ganache Topping. It’s rich, rewarding, and sure to become a legendary favorite with everyone lucky enough to grab a slice. Give it a go and treat yourself — you deserve it!

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