Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
This rich and creamy Hot Chocolate Cheesecake combines the beloved flavors of classic hot cocoa with a smooth and velvety cheesecake. A crunchy Oreo crust perfectly complements the decadent chocolate filling, while the light whipped cream topping adds a final touch of indulgence. Ideal for chocolate lovers seeking a unique dessert to impress at any gathering.
- Author: Leo
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Oreo Crust
- 3 cups Oreos (fine crumb)
- 5 TBSP Unsalted butter (melted)
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup White granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Hot cocoa mix (2 packets)
- 1/3 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup Sour cream (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup Heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 4 Large eggs (room temperature)
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy cream (cold)
- 1/4 cup Powdered sugar
- 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, crushed candy canes
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325℉. Spray a 9-inch springform pan with baking spray. Line the bottom with a parchment paper circle and spray the parchment as well to prevent sticking.
- Create the Oreo Crust: Using a food processor, blend the Oreos into fine crumbs. In a small bowl, combine the Oreo crumbs with the melted butter using a fork until well mixed.
- Form and Bake the Crust: Pour the Oreo mixture into the prepared pan. Press the crust mixture firmly onto the bottom and halfway up the sides of the pan using your hands and the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it. Bake for 11 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixer, beat the cream cheese and sugar on high speed for 2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.
- Incorporate Chocolate Flavors: Add the hot cocoa mix, unsweetened cocoa powder, sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix on medium speed until everything is blended evenly. Scrape the bowl again to ensure no pockets of ingredients remain.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time and mix on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
- Prepare a Water Bath and Pour Batter: Pour the cheesecake batter over the partially baked crust. Prepare a water bath to ensure gentle, even baking and prevent cracking by either placing the springform pan inside a larger cake pan set into a roasting pan with hot water halfway up, or wrapping the springform pan twice in foil and placing it directly in the roasting pan filled halfway with hot water.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 75 to 85 minutes. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Cool the Cheesecake Gradually: Turn off the oven and crack open the door to let the cheesecake cool slowly for 30 minutes. Then remove the pan and transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill: Cover the cooled cheesecake with foil and chill for at least 6 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor development.
- Make the Whipped Cream Topping: Using a metal bowl fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until medium peaks form.
- Assemble: Remove the springform pan and parchment paper. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Decorate with optional mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes if desired.
Notes
- Using a water bath helps prevent cracking and ensures a silky texture in the cheesecake.
- Make sure all dairy ingredients and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps and ensure smooth batter.
- Let the cheesecake cool slowly by leaving the oven door ajar to reduce risk of cracks.
- For best flavor and texture, chill the cheesecake overnight before serving.
- Optional garnishes like mini marshmallows and crushed candy canes enhance the hot chocolate theme and add texture.
Keywords: hot chocolate cheesecake, Oreo crust cheesecake, chocolate dessert, creamy cheesecake recipe, holiday cheesecake