Divine Chocolate Cheesecake Delight 🍓
Indulge in this divine chocolate cheesecake featuring an easy Oreo crust, a rich and creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, and a silky ganache topping. Perfect for any special occasion or a decadent treat!
Equipment
- 9-inch Springform Pan
- Food Processor
- Roasting Pan
Ingredients
For the Easy Oreo Crust
- 18 whole Oreo cookies (about 1 ½ cups crushed), finely crushed
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (½ stick), melted
For the Creamy Chocolate Cheesecake
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate melted and slightly cooled
- 32 ounces cream cheese (four 8-ounce blocks), softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
For the Silky Ganache Topping
- 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Optional Garnish
- Fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of freshness
Instructions
- Get Ready: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Gently wrap the outside of a 9-inch springform pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Lightly spray the inside with nonstick cooking spray.
- Make the Simple Oreo Crust: In a food processor, pulse the Oreo cookies until they become fine crumbs. Pour in the melted butter and pulse again until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared springform pan, extending about 1 inch (2.5 cm) up the sides.
- Bake the Crust: Pop the crust into the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove it and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Prepare the Chocolate Filling: In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate. Heat it at 50% power in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat on low speed until the mixture is super smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor & Texture: Stir in the sour cream, all-purpose flour, and vanilla extract on low speed until just combined. Next, gently mix in the slightly cooled melted chocolate. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing only until each is just blended. Remember, don't overmix to keep it creamy!
- Fill & Prepare for Baking: Pour the cheesecake batter over your cooled Oreo crust. Gently tap the pan a few times on your counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake with Care: Place a folded towel at the bottom of a large roasting pan (optional, but recommended for even baking). Carefully place your cheesecake pan on the towel in the roasting pan. If using a water bath, carefully pour hot water into the larger pan, away from the cheesecake, until it comes about halfway up the side of the springform pan (1-2 inches deep). Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight gentle wobble.
- Cooling is Key: Turn off the oven and prop the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour. Then, remove it and let it cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack for another hour. Once cooled, wrap it well with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight.
- Whip up the Ganache Topping: Place the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate in a heat-proof bowl. In a small saucepan or microwave, heat the heavy whipping cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes. Then, stir gently until you have a wonderfully smooth, glossy ganache. Let it cool for about 20 minutes before using.
- Assemble & Serve: Once the cheesecake is thoroughly chilled, remove it from the fridge and gently take off the springform pan rim. Pour the slightly cooled ganache over the cheesecake, spreading it evenly. Chill for another 20-30 minutes until the ganache is set. For a healthy and vibrant touch, garnish with fresh strawberries or raspberries before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade, decadent treat!
Notes
Nutrition Information per serving: Calories: 576 kcal, Total Carbs: 41g, Net Carbs: 38g, Fats: 43g, Protein: 8g.
This decadent cheesecake is worth every minute of chill time. Feel free to adjust the garnish with your favorite berries or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings!
