Decadent Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
This decadent Hot Chocolate Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional cheesecake with the deep, comforting flavors of chocolate and cocoa powder, offering a perfect dessert for chocolate lovers. Baked to perfection and chilled for a smooth finish, it’s a delightful treat that pairs well with a cozy evening.
- Author: Yana
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Cheesecake Base
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain for a silky texture.
- Add Chocolate and Cocoa: Gradually incorporate the melted semi-sweet chocolate and cocoa powder into the cream cheese mixture, blending thoroughly to achieve an even chocolate flavor throughout.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition to avoid over-beating. Stir in the vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
- Finish with Sour Cream: Fold in the sour cream carefully to maintain a light, creamy consistency, ensuring the batter stays smooth.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up and develop flavors.
- Serve: Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan, slice, and serve. Optionally garnish with whipped cream or chocolate shavings for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Do not over-mix the batter to prevent cracks during baking.
- A water bath can be used during baking to maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
- Allow sufficient chilling time for best texture and flavor development.
Keywords: hot chocolate cheesecake, chocolate cheesecake, creamy cheesecake, baked cheesecake, dessert recipe, cocoa cheesecake