Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Introduction

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines the smooth, rich texture of a classic cheesecake with the comforting, indulgent flavors of hot chocolate. This dessert has a creamy cheesecake base infused with the cozy warmth of cocoa, topped with a layer of velvety chocolate ganache, and decorated with marshmallows for that authentic hot chocolate experience.

I remember making this for the first time on a chilly evening, and it instantly became a favorite. The aroma of chocolate filled the kitchen, and every bite was pure comfort. The combination of creamy cheesecake and silky ganache makes it irresistibly indulgent, while the marshmallows add a fun, nostalgic touch. It’s a dessert that brings warmth and joy with every slice.

Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply treating yourself to something special, this cheesecake is as stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a hot chocolate enthusiast, this dessert is sure to satisfy your cravings for both!

Perfect for:

• Winter holidays
• Cozy family nights
• Special occasions
• Chocolate lovers
• Hot chocolate fans

Why You’ll Love This Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Here’s why Hot Chocolate Cheesecake will become your go-to dessert for colder months:

• Rich and Creamy: The cheesecake base is perfectly smooth and creamy, making every bite feel like a luxurious treat.
• Warm Chocolate Flavor: The cocoa-infused filling provides a deliciously warm, comforting chocolate flavor reminiscent of your favorite hot chocolate.
• Gooey Chocolate Ganache: Topped with a silky chocolate ganache and marshmallows, this cheesecake mimics the rich, indulgent topping of a classic hot chocolate.
• Festive and Fun: This dessert is both festive and fun, thanks to the marshmallow topping and its warm chocolatey layers.
• Impressive but Easy: Despite its fancy appearance, this cheesecake is surprisingly easy to make and will impress your guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling)
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Hot Chocolate Cheesecake:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Topping:

• Mini marshmallows, for garnish
• Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream Cheese: A key ingredient for the cheesecake filling, giving the dessert its smooth, creamy, and tangy flavor.
• Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds the deep, rich chocolate flavor that defines this dessert.
• Heavy Cream: Used in both the filling and ganache, heavy cream contributes to the rich and smooth texture of the cheesecake.
• Marshmallows: They give a nod to the hot chocolate theme and add a fun, nostalgic touch to the cheesecake topping.
• Sour Cream: A bit of sour cream helps create a smoother filling, enhancing the cheesecake’s richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Hot Chocolate Cheesecake:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until everything is well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

4. Mix the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix until fully combined.
6. Incorporate the Cocoa Powder: Add the cocoa powder and cornstarch, mixing until the cocoa is completely dissolved into the cream cheese mixture.
7. Add the Heavy Cream and Sour Cream: Beat in the heavy cream and sour cream, ensuring the mixture is smooth.
8. Pour the Filling into the Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake:

9. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
10. Chill: After the cheesecake has cooled in the oven, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

11. Make the Ganache: While the cheesecake chills, prepare the ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Stir until smooth and glossy.
12. Cool the Ganache: Let the ganache cool slightly to room temperature before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

13. Add the Ganache: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, pour the ganache over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let the ganache set for about 10 minutes.
14. Garnish: Top the cheesecake with mini marshmallows and shaved chocolate or cocoa powder for extra flair.

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert that can be served in various ways:

• On Its Own: Serve a slice of this decadent cheesecake on a dessert plate for a satisfying treat.
• With Hot Chocolate: Pair this cheesecake with a warm cup of hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy dessert experience.
• As Part of a Dessert Spread: Add this cheesecake to a dessert spread with other chocolate treats for a fun, themed dessert table.
• With Fresh Berries: For a fresh contrast, serve the cheesecake with a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries.

Additional Tips for Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Here are some tips to ensure your Hot Chocolate Cheesecake is perfect every time:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth and lump-free filling.
• Avoid Overbaking: To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking the cheesecake. It should still have a slight wobble in the center when done.
• Chill Fully: Let the cheesecake chill for a few hours or overnight to allow it to set properly before adding the ganache.
• Smooth Ganache: Ensure that your ganache is smooth and glossy by stirring it thoroughly after pouring the cream over the chocolate.
• Use a Water Bath (Optional): For an ultra-smooth cheesecake, you can bake it in a water bath to prevent cracking. Simply wrap the bottom of the springform pan with foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water.

Recipe Variations for Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Here are 5 variations you can try for Hot Chocolate Cheesecake:

• Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cheesecake: Add peppermint extract to the filling or ganache for a festive, minty twist.
• Marshmallow Swirl Cheesecake: Swirl marshmallow fluff into the cheesecake filling for a marshmallow-infused flavor throughout.
• Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate Cheesecake: Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Nutty Hot Chocolate Cheesecake: Add chopped hazelnuts or walnuts to the crust for a crunchy texture and extra depth of flavor.
• Vegan Hot Chocolate Cheesecake: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for a vegan version of this dessert.

Freezing and Storage for Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

• Freezing: This cheesecake freezes well. Once fully chilled, cover it with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Special Equipment for Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Hot Chocolate Cheesecake easier:

• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will help you achieve a smooth, creamy filling.
• Springform Pan: A springform pan is ideal for making cheesecakes, allowing for easy removal once it’s fully chilled.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack helps the cheesecake cool evenly after baking.
• Parchment Paper: Use parchment paper to line the bottom of the pan for easy removal.
• Spatula: A spatula is essential for spreading the ganache and smoothing the filling.
• Whisk: A whisk will help you blend the cocoa powder and cornstarch into the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions for Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

1. Can I use a store-bought crust?
   Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust if you’re short on time, but the homemade crust adds extra flavor and texture.
2. Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?
   Yes, milk chocolate will give the ganache a sweeter flavor if you prefer it less rich.
3. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
   If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular round cake pan lined with parchment paper, but it may be harder to remove the cheesecake.
4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
   The cheesecake should be slightly wobbly in the center when done, but the edges should be set. If the center is completely firm, it’s likely overbaked.
5. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
   Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge.

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Conclusion

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake is a rich, indulgent treat that combines the comforting flavors of hot chocolate with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights, or any occasion that calls for something extra special, this dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

With its velvety filling, luscious chocolate ganache, and a fluffy marshmallow topping, every bite is pure comfort. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it all to yourself, this cheesecake is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.

I’d love to see your Hot Chocolate Cheesecake creations! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious masterpiece. Happy baking!