Indulge in the decadence of a No-Bake German Chocolate Cheesecake – a delightful twist on the classic German Chocolate Cake. This recipe boasts a luscious creamy chocolate cheesecake filling nestled on a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, topped with a delightful blend of coconut and pecans. It’s a true showstopper that brings all the beloved flavors of the traditional cake into a sumptuous cheesecake form.
As the summer heat approaches, this no-bake dessert becomes a perfect go-to treat when turning on the oven is out of the question. Inspired by the success of my No-Bake German Chocolate Pie and No-Bake Espresso Chocolate Cheesecake, this creation is a fusion of flavors that promises an unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to embark on a journey of pure indulgence with this OUT OF THIS WORLD delicious German Chocolate Cheesecake.
Ingredients
For the No-Bake German Chocolate Cheesecake recipe, gather the following ingredients for the Chocolate Cookie Crust, Cheesecake Filling, and Coconut Pecan Topping.
For the Chocolate Cookie Crust
- 9 chocolate graham cracker sheets, finely ground
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk (undiluted, straight from the can)
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup dried coconut, toasted
- 3/4 cups pecans, toasted and finely chopped
Gather these ingredients to create a delightful and decadent No-Bake German Chocolate Cheesecake that promises to be a showstopper at any gathering.
Equipment Needed
For preparing this delightful German Chocolate Cheesecake recipe, you will need the following equipment:
- 13in x 9in baking dish
- Mixer
- Small bowl
- Heavy saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Oven
Having these essential tools ready will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process for creating this indulgent dessert.
Preparation
To make this decadent German Chocolate Cheesecake, we need to prepare the chocolate cookie crust, the creamy cheesecake filling, and the luscious coconut pecan topping. Let’s dive into the preparation steps for each component.
Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
- Grind 9 chocolate graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs and mix them with 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan, then bake for 10 minutes and set aside.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- In a microwave safe bowl, combine German chocolate and 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream. Melt in the microwave in 15-second increments until smooth, then let it cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs one at a time.
- Add the melted chocolate mixture and mix until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust and refrigerate until set.
- In a saucepan, cook sugar and butter until thickened and golden brown.
- Stir in coconut and pecans, then allow the mixture to cool.
- Spread the topping over the chilled cheesecake and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping German Chocolate Cheesecake that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Assembly
Assembling the German Chocolate Cheesecake is where all the delicious layers come together to create a decadent treat that will impress your guests. Follow these steps to layer the ingredients and add the final touches to complete this show-stopping dessert.
Layering the Ingredients
- Crust Preparation: Press the Oreo cookie crust firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer by using the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake the crust at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes, then allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Toasting Coconut and Pecans: Divide the coconut and pecans on a baking sheet and toast them separately until golden brown. Once toasted, chop the pecans and set them aside for the filling.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Filling: Prepare the chocolate cheesecake filling by blending cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in melted chocolate until well combined. Pour this rich filling over the prepared crust and smooth out the top.
- Baking the Cheesecake: Bake the assembled cheesecake for 55 minutes or until almost set. Don’t worry if the top cracks; it will be covered with a delicious topping.
- Chilling and Serving: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely, then chill it in the fridge until ready to serve. The final touch comes with the coconut pecan topping, adding a sweet and crunchy layer to this indulgent German Chocolate Cheesecake.
Baking
Pre-bake Instructions
To start the baking process for this indulgent German Chocolate Cheesecake, we need to prepare the crust and the oven for the upcoming steps. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and ensure it’s ready for the cheesecake.
- Prepare the Crust: Combine the crust ingredients thoroughly, press them into the springform pan, and bake it for 10 minutes. Once baked, set it aside to cool as we move forward.
- Secure the Pan: Cover the outside of the pan with aluminum foil to prevent any leaks during baking. This step ensures that the cheesecake bakes evenly and maintains its creamy texture.
Main Baking Instructions
With the pre-bake setup completed, it’s time to move on to the main baking process. Follow these steps to create the perfect texture and flavor for your German Chocolate Cheesecake.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Blend the cream cheese, sugar, chocolate, flour, and cocoa until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time and incorporate them gently. Then, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract slowly to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Smooth Baking: Place the springform pan in a larger pan with water to create a water bath. Bake the cheesecake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for around 50-55 minutes. The center should be just set, and the top will appear dull when ready.
Cooling and Settling
Once the baking is complete, it’s time to ensure that the German Chocolate Cheesecake settles and cools properly for the best taste and texture.
- Cooling Process: After baking, let the cheesecake cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then, carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen it and cool for another hour.
- Refrigerate: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a firm, sliceable cheesecake.
By following these baking instructions meticulously, you’ll achieve a perfectly baked German Chocolate Cheesecake that will impress your guests with its rich flavor and creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the experience of enjoying this decadent No-Bake German Chocolate Cheesecake, consider these serving suggestions:
- Fresh Whip Cream: Top each slice of cheesecake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate and coconut flavors.
- Warm Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cheesecake just before serving for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some extra toasted coconut flakes on top of the cheesecake slices for a crunchy texture and enhanced coconut flavor.
- Chopped Pecans: Finish off each slice with a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans for a nutty and satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Berries: Serve the cheesecake with a side of fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries to add a burst of freshness to each bite.
- Coffee Pairing: Pair a slice of German Chocolate Cheesecake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee to enhance the overall dessert experience with complementary flavors.
- Chocolate Shavings: Garnish the cheesecake slices with delicate chocolate shavings for an elegant presentation and an extra hint of chocolate indulgence.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
When it comes to storing your delectable German Chocolate Cheesecake, proper care is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some handy storage and make-ahead tips to help you enjoy your cheesecake for longer:
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: After indulging in a slice (or two) of your German Chocolate Cheesecake, it’s crucial to refrigerate any remaining portions promptly. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any odors from affecting the dessert’s delicate flavors.
- Air-tight Container: For extended storage, transfer the cheesecake slices to an airtight container. Ensure the container is well-sealed to avoid any absorption of other flavors from the fridge.
- Proper Placement: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator rather than on the countertop. The cool temperature of the fridge helps preserve the cheesecake’s texture and prevents it from spoiling quickly.
- Prepare Crust in Advance: If you’re short on time, consider making the crust ahead of the actual cheesecake preparation. Store the crust in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the cheesecake.
- Freezing: German Chocolate Cheesecake can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap the cheesecake (either whole or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw the frozen cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- Advance Assembly: While cheesecake is best enjoyed fresh, you can still assemble the components in advance. Prepare the crust, filling, and topping separately and assemble them just before serving. This can save you time and ensure a freshly-made taste.
Conclusion
Creating a No-Bake German Chocolate Cheesecake is a delightful way to elevate your dessert game. The fusion of creamy chocolate, coconut, and pecans on an Oreo crust offers a decadent treat for any occasion. Remember, proper cooling and refrigeration are key to achieving the perfect texture. To enhance your cheesecake experience, consider adding whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or fresh berries. Storage and make-ahead tips ensure you can enjoy this delicious dessert at your convenience. With these insights, you’re ready to impress your guests with a mouthwatering German chocolate cheesecake that’s sure to be a hit.