Death by Chocolate Cheesecake
Death by Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that promises to satisfy even the most serious chocolate cravings. With its creamy cheesecake filling and chocolatey crust, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering. It’s a perfect treat for special occasions, holidays, or simply to enjoy at home.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it combines the best elements of chocolate and cheesecake into one delicious dessert. It’s easy to follow, and the end result is a showstopper that will impress your family and friends. Plus, who can resist chocolate? This cheesecake is truly a chocolate lover’s dream, and making it yourself gives you the joy of creating a delightful dessert from scratch.
How to Make Death by Chocolate Cheesecake
Making Death by Chocolate Cheesecake is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these steps to create your chocolate masterpiece:
Ingredients:
- 15 full-size chocolate graham crackers
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 24 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Directions:
Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a food processor, process the graham crackers until finely ground. Mix with melted butter until moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the Filling: Melt the chopped chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Let cool. In a mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth, about 1 minute. Add sugar, cream, and cocoa powder, and mix until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until smooth. Gently mix in the melted chocolate until combined.
Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any leaks. Bake for 50 minutes, or until the top looks set but the center is slightly wobbly. Crack the oven door open, turn off the heat, and allow to cool for 10 minutes to prevent cracking. Transfer to a wire rack to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Prepare the Ganache Topping: Heat the cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 3 minutes. Stir until smooth. Allow it to cool and thicken slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake.
How to Serve Death by Chocolate Cheesecake
Serve Death by Chocolate Cheesecake chilled. You can slice it into wedges and top each slice with whipped cream or chocolate shavings for an extra touch. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for those who want even more decadence.
How to Store Death by Chocolate Cheesecake
Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. It will stay good for about 4 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake. Just be sure to wrap it well before freezing.
Tips to Make Death by Chocolate Cheesecake
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps the cheesecake mix smoothly.
- Do not overbeat the eggs. Just mix until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semisweet.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually to avoid cracks on the surface.
Variation
You can add different flavors to the cheesecake by mixing in ingredients like peppermint extract or espresso powder to the batter. You could also incorporate a layer of raspberry or other fruit puree for a fruity twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess and richness of the cheesecake.
2. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake should be set around the edges but slightly wobbly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It is a great idea to prepare it a day before serving. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Enjoy creating and savoring this Death by Chocolate Cheesecake!