Indulge in the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream with a velvety smooth, rich Dark Chocolate Cheesecake. This decadent dessert is a triple chocolate delight, featuring an irresistible Oreo crust and luscious chocolate ganache. As a passionate food blogger, I couldn’t resist the temptation to create more cheesecake magic in my kitchen after the success of our traditional baked cheesecake recipe last fall.
With its creamy texture and intense dark chocolate flavor, this Dark Chocolate Cheesecake is a showstopper that will impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a dessert enthusiast looking to elevate your sweet creations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Stay tuned as I guide you through the steps to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and richness in every decadent bite.
Essential Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Cheesecake
For the perfect Dark Chocolate Cheesecake, it’s essential to gather the right ingredients that will elevate the rich and velvety flavors of this decadent dessert.
Crust Ingredients
To create the foundation of the Dark Chocolate Cheesecake, you will need:
- 15 full size chocolate graham crackers (about 225 grams)
- 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients
For the luscious and creamy cheesecake filling, prepare:
- 24 ounces (680 grams) full-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (21 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
Chocolate Ganache Ingredients
To top off your Dark Chocolate Cheesecake with a delectable ganache, you will need:
- 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Gathering these high-quality ingredients is the first step towards creating a showstopping Dark Chocolate Cheesecake that will impress your guests with its intense chocolate flavor and luxurious texture.
Equipment Needed
Kitchen Tools for Cheesecake
For this dark chocolate cheesecake recipe, you will need a 9-inch springform pan to create the perfect shape for your decadent dessert. A food processor will be essential to finely ground the chocolate graham crackers for the crust. Additionally, make sure to have a mixer for combining the cream cheese and sugar to achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
Optional Equipment for Enhanced Presentation
If you want to elevate the presentation of your dark chocolate cheesecake, consider using a cake decorating comb to create elegant designs on the ganache topping. A kitchen torch can be handy for adding a caramelized finish to the dessert, giving it a professional touch. Don’t forget to have a cake stand for a beautiful display that will impress your guests.
Preparing Dark Chocolate Cheesecake
To achieve the decadent and rich Dark Chocolate Cheesecake, we will focus on three key steps: creating the crust, making the cheesecake filling, and preparing the luscious chocolate ganache. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Making the Crust
- In a food processor, grind 15 (225 grams) full-size chocolate graham crackers until they form fine crumbs.
- Add 6 tablespoons (85 grams) of melted unsalted butter to the crumbs and pulse until moistened.
- Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring to cover the bottom and halfway up the sides.
Creating the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine 24 ounces (680 grams) of full-fat cream cheese at room temperature with 1 cup (200 grams) of granulated sugar until smooth.
- Mix in 8 ounces (227 grams) of chopped semisweet chocolate, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup (21 grams) of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 4 large eggs at room temperature.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- In a heatproof bowl, combine 1 cup (170 grams) of semisweet chocolate chips with 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
- Microwave the mixture in short intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
- Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the baked and cooled cheesecake.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake to allow the ganache to set before serving.
Baking the Cheesecake
Baking the Dark Chocolate Cheesecake is a delightful process that results in a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. Following these step-by-step instructions will ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake with rich chocolate flavor.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 325°F. While the oven heats up, make sure the crust is ready in the springform pan.
- Crust Baking: Once the crust is prepared and the oven is at the right temperature, bake the crust for about 10 minutes until fragrant. Let it cool while preparing the filling.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Filling Preparation: In a food processor, blend the cream cheese, sugar, chopped semisweet chocolate, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and eggs until smooth. Pour this silky mixture over the cooled crust.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until the center is almost set. It’s normal if it jiggles slightly.
- Chilling Time: Once baked, let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Chocolate Ganache: In a separate bowl, heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream until smooth. Pour this luscious ganache over the chilled cheesecake for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Finishing Touches: Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with chocolate curls or any desired toppings for a beautiful presentation.
Water Bath Techniques for Cheesecake
While traditional cheesecakes often require a water bath to regulate the oven temperature and prevent cracking, this Dark Chocolate Cheesecake recipe eliminates the need for this technique. By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can achieve a perfectly baked, creamy cheesecake without the fuss of a water bath.
Decorating and Final Touches
As I put the finishing touches on my dark chocolate cheesecake, enhancing its visual appeal and adding an extra layer of indulgence is key to making it a showstopper dessert.
Adding Toppings
To elevate the presentation of the dark chocolate cheesecake, I recommend adding some delightful toppings. Consider sprinkling chocolate curls or shavings on top of the cheesecake for a sophisticated and elegant finish. The chocolate curls not only add a decorative touch but also provide a contrasting texture to the smooth and creamy cheesecake.
Applying Chocolate Ganache
One of my favorite ways to enhance the flavor and appearance of the dark chocolate cheesecake is by applying a decadent chocolate ganache. After the cheesecake has baked and cooled, prepare a simple chocolate ganache by combining chopped chocolate and cream, heating until smooth, and pouring it over the top of the cheesecake. The glossy finish of the ganache adds a luxurious touch to the dessert, making it even more irresistible to chocolate lovers.
Serving and Storage Tips
Indulge in the velvety goodness of this Dark Chocolate Cheesecake with these serving and storage tips that ensure a delightful experience from plate to palate.
Best Practices for Slicing Cheesecake
When it comes to slicing your Dark Chocolate Cheesecake, ensure perfect portions by running a knife under hot water before each cut. This simple step prevents the filling from sticking to the knife, giving you clean, beautiful slices that showcase the luscious layers of chocolatey goodness.
Storing Your Cheesecake
To preserve the decadence of your Dark Chocolate Cheesecake, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. After this period, the crust may soften excessively. For longer storage, freeze the entire cheesecake or individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or silicone bag. Enjoy your frozen cheesecake within 3 months by thawing it in the refrigerator overnight for a creamy, delectable treat anytime.
Conclusion
Creating a luscious Dark Chocolate Cheesecake is a rewarding journey that culminates in a decadent dessert experience. From the rich chocolate graham cracker crust to the creamy, velvety filling topped with a luxurious chocolate ganache, every bite is a symphony of flavors. By following the baking techniques shared in this article, you can achieve a perfectly baked cheesecake without the hassle of a water bath. Remember, proper slicing and storage are key to preserving the cheesecake’s texture and taste. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later indulgence, this Dark Chocolate Cheesecake recipe promises to delight your taste buds with its irresistible richness.