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Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake

Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake
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Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert combining velvety cream cheese with deep dark chocolate flavors for an irresistibly smooth texture. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent everyday treats, this elegant cheesecake features a crunchy graham cracker crust and a glossy chocolate finish that impresses both in taste and presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

  • 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, melted
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Start by crushing graham crackers into fine crumbs, then mix with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan to form an even layer. Chill in the fridge while you make the filling to help it set perfectly.
  2. Melt the Chocolate: Gently melt the dark chocolate either in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring often to avoid burning. Let the chocolate cool slightly but keep it fluid enough to blend smoothly into your cream cheese.
  3. Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, without lumps. This step is essential for a silky texture that defines the cheesecake.
  4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating on low speed to maintain aeration without introducing cracks later on. Add vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing until just combined to preserve a tender crumb.
  5. Combine Chocolate and Batter: Slowly fold melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture, blending until the batter is uniform and glossy. Pour promptly over the chilled crust to avoid it setting too thick.
  6. Bake with Care: Place the springform pan in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Bake 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for an hour to prevent cracking.
  7. Chill Thoroughly: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling step intensifies flavor and perfects the creamy texture.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps and promote smooth blending.
  • Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to help regulate temperature and prevent cracks on the surface.
  • Mix just until combined to keep the texture delicate and avoid incorporating excess air.
  • Slow cooling inside the oven reduces the chance of cracks and keeps the cake dense.
  • Opt for good-quality chocolate to really bring out the decadent flavor profile.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate cheesecake, decadent dessert, creamy cheesecake, chocolate dessert, baked cheesecake, rich chocolate cake

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/decadent-chocolate-cheesecake/