Description
This Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert that combines smooth cream cheese with deep bittersweet chocolate flavors. Easy to make and perfect for all skill levels, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness, silky texture, and chocolate decadence ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- Chocolate cookies, crushed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Melted butter (about 6 tablespoons)
For the Filling
- Cream cheese (about 24 oz / 680 g), softened to room temperature
- Bittersweet chocolate (about 6 oz / 170 g)
- Sugar (about 3/4 cup / 150 g)
- Eggs (3 large, room temperature)
- Sour cream (about 1 cup / 240 ml)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Start by crushing chocolate cookies into fine crumbs, then combine them with melted butter to form a cohesive mixture. Press this firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create a firm, chocolatey base. Chill it in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
- Melt the Chocolate: Gently melt your bittersweet chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool slightly so it can safely be mixed with the cream cheese.
- Mix the Filling: Using a mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until fully combined and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the melted chocolate, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the chocolate cream cheese mixture over the chilled crust. Place the pan in a preheated oven set to 325°F (160°C). Bake for about 50-60 minutes until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for an hour, then transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill it for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight. This step solidifies the texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother blend and creamy texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid introducing air that can cause cracks during baking.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath by wrapping the pan bottom and placing it in a water bath to prevent cracking and promote even cooking.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly; patience enhances flavor and texture.
- Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best richness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Chocolate Cheesecake, Decadent Dessert, Cream Cheese, Bittersweet Chocolate, Gluten Free Cheesecake, Holiday Dessert