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Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 132 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This decadent Hot Chocolate Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the comforting flavors of hot cocoa. Featuring a crunchy Oreo crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream and optional festive decorations, this dessert is perfect for chilly evenings or special occasions. The cheesecake is baked using a water bath to ensure a smooth, crack-free finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Oreo Crust

  • 3 cups Oreos (finely crushed)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup hot cocoa mix (about 2 packets)
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (cold)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Decorations

  • Mini marshmallows
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Crushed candy canes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Spray a 9-inch springform pan with baking spray, line the bottom with parchment paper, and spray again to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake later.
  2. Make the Oreo Crust: Using a food processor, pulse the Oreos until they become a fine crumb. Transfer to a small bowl and mix with melted butter using a fork until evenly combined.
  3. Press the Crust: Pour the Oreo mixture into the prepared pan. Use your hands to press it evenly along the bottom and halfway up the sides. Compact the crust firmly with the bottom of a measuring cup for an even base.
  4. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 11 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
  5. Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar on high speed for 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
  6. Add Cocoa Ingredients and Mix: 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 well combined, scraping the bowl as needed.
  7. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing to maintain a creamy texture. Finish mixing with a spatula to ensure uniform batter.
  8. Prepare Water Bath: Place the baked crust in a water bath to prevent cracking. Method 1: Place the springform pan inside a 10-inch cake pan, then set the cake pan in a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the cake pan. Method 2: Wrap the springform pan tightly twice in aluminum foil and place it directly in the roasting pan. Pour hot water halfway up the springform pan. Both methods keep moisture consistent during baking.
  9. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust. Bake for 75-85 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
  10. Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes to prevent cracking. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely at room temperature.
  11. Chill: Cover the cheesecake with foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
  12. Make Whipped Cream Topping: Using a metal mixing bowl fitted with a whisk attachment, beat cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until medium peaks form.
  13. Decorate: Remove the chilled cheesecake from the springform pan and peel off the parchment paper. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top. Optionally, garnish with mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

Notes

  • Room temperature ingredients help achieve a smooth batter and prevent lumps.
  • Be careful not to overmix eggs to avoid dense texture.
  • The water bath should be prepared carefully to avoid leaks that could wet the crust.
  • Chilling overnight improves the cheesecake’s texture and flavor.
  • Optional toppings add texture and a festive element but can be customized to preference.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Hot Chocolate Cheesecake, Oreo Crust, Chocolate Cheesecake, Holiday Dessert, Cream Cheese Dessert

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Find it online: https://everydaytastes.com/hot-chocolate-cheesecake-recipe-2/