If you are a dessert lover who adores rich, velvety textures combined with intense chocolate flavor, this Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake Recipe will become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine a smooth, creamy cheesecake base layered over a delicate chocolate crust, crowned by a luscious, glossy ganache that melts in your mouth with every bite. This recipe masterfully balances sweetness and deep cocoa notes, creating a dessert that feels luxurious yet approachable—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake Recipe plays a crucial role in building its decadent flavor and silky texture. The combination of simple pantry staples and high-quality dairy ensures the perfect balance of richness, moisture, and that irresistible chocolate essence.
- 1 ½ cup flour: Provides the foundation for the tender chocolate crust that holds the cheesecake beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder: Adds depth and a robust chocolate flavor to the crust, enhancing every bite.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the crust a slight lift and lightness.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate notes.
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened): Binds the crust ingredients and enriches the taste with creaminess.
- 1 cup sugar (crust): Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering the chocolate.
- 2 large egg yolks: Adds richness and helps set the crust perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons whole milk: Introduces moisture to keep the crust tender.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (crust): Elevates the flavor and adds aromatic warmth.
- 16 ounces cream cheese (2 packages, softened): The star of the cheesecake, delivering that smooth, creamy texture everyone loves.
- 1 cup sugar (filling): Sweetens the filling to a perfect, creamy balance.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and keeps the cheesecake moist and velvety.
- ¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (filling): Enhances all the flavors in the cheesecake filling.
- â…› teaspoon kosher salt (filling): Just a hint to bring out the sweetness and chocolate depth.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for structure and that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into the filling for pockets of gooey chocolate goodness.
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream (ganache): Combined with chocolate chips to create the rich ganache that crowns the cheesecake.
How to Make Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the egg yolks, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of a springform pan, ensuring a smooth surface. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes to slightly set and enhance the chocolate flavor while your oven heats further.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheesecake Filling
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing well. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, being careful not to overmix to avoid air bubbles. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips gently for delightful chocolate bursts in every slice. Pour this luscious batter over your warm crust and smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake the cheesecake for 30 minutes, until just set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Once finished, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door ajar for 30 minutes to prevent cracking. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature before chilling it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight, enabling the flavors to marry and the texture to fully set.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping
To create the decadent ganache, heat the heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir gently until smooth, glossy, and irresistible. Pour the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it to the edges for full coverage. Chill the cheesecake again for another hour to allow the ganache to set beautifully.
How to Serve Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
For an unfussy but elegant look, sprinkle shaved dark chocolate or cocoa nibs atop the ganache for texture and a touch of bittersweet charm. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries offer a pop of color and tartness, while a dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate contrast. Whipped cream dollops alongside slices elevate this dessert into something truly festive.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a simple fruit salad drizzled with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the rich chocolate. For an adult twist, serve with freshly brewed espresso or a smooth glass of port wine to complement the intense flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices on stylish plates with a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Alternatively, layer the ganache cheesecake in clear glasses, alternating with whipped cream and crushed cookies for an indulgent parfait. You could even garnish with edible gold leaf for a dazzling showstopper dessert at special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This ensures that it stays moist and that the luscious cheesecake and ganache flavors remain vibrant. Be sure to cover it well to avoid picking up other odors from the fridge.
Freezing
If you want to prepare your cheesecake ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled and ganache-topped cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best experience, serve this cheesecake chilled. If you’d like to loosen the ganache a bit before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the texture negatively.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?
Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are recommended for balance, you can also use dark, milk, or even white chocolate depending on your preference. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly to keep the cheesecake deliciously harmonious.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Softening the cream cheese ensures a smooth filling without lumps and helps it blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. Leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing is usually enough.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to select blends suitable for baking to maintain texture and structure in the crust.
What if my cheesecake cracks during baking?
Cracks can happen if the cheesecake is overbaked or cooled too quickly. Baking at a lower temperature and allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open helps prevent cracking. If cracks do appear, a thick layer of ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar can easily conceal them.
How long does it take to make the Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake Recipe from start to finish?
Including preparation, baking, cooling, and chilling time, expect to spend several hours, primarily waiting for the cheesecake to set properly in the fridge. Active preparation time is about 45 minutes, but patience pays off with every rich, creamy bite.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of chocolate in its most luxurious, creamy form. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary slice, this cheesecake promises to deliver unforgettable flavor and texture with every bite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into this blissful chocolatey adventure—you won’t regret it!
Print
Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and indulgent Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake features a luscious cocoa-infused crust, a smooth and creamy cream cheese filling, and a decadent semi-sweet chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for an elegant dessert that’s both velvety and deeply chocolatey.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cup flour
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese (2 8-ounce packages, softened)
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- â…› teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 large eggs
Ganache Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, and kosher salt, mixing well to combine. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Pour the filling mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the assembled cheesecake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the chocolate ganache topping: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy whipping cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then gently stir until smooth and glossy.
- Apply the ganache and chill: Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese and butter for smoother mixing and a better texture.
- To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking the cheesecake and allow it to cool gradually.
- For easier removal, run a knife around the edges before releasing the springform pan.
- Store cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Bring the cheesecake to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
