Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake
The Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich, velvety dessert combining the intense flavor of high-quality chocolate with the smooth tang of cream cheese. With a perfectly balanced creamy filling and a crumbly graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is simple to prepare yet impressive for any occasion. It can be customized with various toppings and variations to suit all tastes.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Filling
- 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- Prepare the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until the mixture is moist and crumbly. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even, compact base.
- Melt the Chocolate: Gently melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Mix the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in the melted chocolate and vanilla extract, then stir in sour cream or heavy cream until silky.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the chocolate filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up and enhance flavors.
Notes
- Bring ingredients to room temperature for a lump-free batter.
- Do not overbake; the center should jiggle slightly when done.
- Use a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure even baking.
- Chill overnight for best texture and flavor.
- Run a knife around the edges before removing the springform to prevent sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: chocolate cheesecake, decadent dessert, creamy cheesecake, chocolate dessert, rich cheesecake, gluten free dessert