Description
Experience the rich and creamy indulgence of a classic Chocolate Cheesecake that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious chocolate-infused cream cheese filling, topped with whipped cream and elegant chocolate shavings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- ½ cup whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer.
- Prepare Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy to ensure a smooth filling texture.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Gradually add sugar to the cream cheese and mix well. Then incorporate sour cream, melted chocolate, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the batter is smooth without lumps.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the prepared filling evenly over the crust in the springform pan, spreading it gently to ensure even thickness.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the cheesecake edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle, indicating it’s perfectly baked.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually and prevent cracking.
- Chill: After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop its flavors.
- Add Topping: Before serving, top the cheesecake with ½ cup of whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Melt chocolate gently to prevent burning; use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.
- Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven prevents cracks on the surface.
- For best results, refrigerate overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
- Use a springform pan to easily remove the cheesecake without damage.
