Death by Chocolate Cheesecake

If you love chocolate, then Death by Chocolate Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for you! This rich and creamy cheesecake is packed with chocolate flavors, making it a real treat for any chocolate lover. With its crunchy crust, smooth filling, and decadent ganache topping, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Death by Chocolate Cheesecake. First, it’s simple to prepare, yet it looks and tastes impressive. It’s a showstopper that will wow your friends and family. Plus, it combines two favorite desserts—cheesecake and chocolate—into one delicious creation. Whether you are hosting a gathering or just want to indulge yourself, this cheesecake is sure to satisfy your cravings.

How to Make Death by Chocolate Cheesecake

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). Process the graham crackers until finely ground. Mix with melted butter until moistened. Press the mixture 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 until smooth and let it cool. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the sugar, cream, and cocoa powder, and mix until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, fold in the melted chocolate.
Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the batter over the cooled crust. Bake for about 50 minutes or until the top looks set. Crack the oven door open, turn off the heat, and let it cool for 10 minutes. Transfer to a rack and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Prepare the Ganache Topping: Heat 1/2 cup of cream in a saucepan until it’s simmering. Pour it over the chocolate chips and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then pour over the cheesecake.

How to Serve Death by Chocolate Cheesecake

Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve it chilled. You can add extra chocolate shavings or even fresh berries on top for a lovely presentation. A dollop of whipped cream would also complement the rich flavor perfectly.

How to Store Death by Chocolate Cheesecake

Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It should last for about 4 to 5 days.

Tips to Make Death by Chocolate Cheesecake

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Don’t skip cooling the cheesecake in the oven; it helps to prevent cracking.
For a stronger chocolate flavor, you can add chocolate extract to the filling.

Variation

You can change things up by adding some mint extract for a mint chocolate cheesecake or mix in some chopped nuts for added texture. You can also try using different types of chocolate, like dark or white chocolate.

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, it may affect the creaminess and texture of the cheesecake.

2. Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes! You can freeze the cheesecake. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will stay good for about 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

3. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools.