Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake with a Buttery Graham Cracker Crust Recipe 🍫🍰

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this decadent chocolate cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. The smooth, chocolatey filling combined with the crunchy, buttery crust creates the perfect dessert that will satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Here’s how to make this luscious treat.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted) 🧈
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 🍬

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 cups cream cheese (softened) 🧀
• ¾ cup granulated sugar 🍬
• 2 large eggs 🥚
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
• ½ cup sour cream 🍋
• 1 cup melted dark chocolate 🍫
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by preparing the buttery graham cracker crust. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter and sugar mixture. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan (about 9 inches) to create an even crust. Use the back of a spoon to press it down tightly.

Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling. This will help the crust set and firm up.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step. Once it’s smooth, add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Next, add the vanilla extract and sour cream, and mix until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa powder. Make sure the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, then fold this chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, and the filling is smooth and chocolatey.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Once the cheesecake filling is ready, pour it over the chilled graham cracker crust in your springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even layers.

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly jiggly. This is normal, as the cheesecake will continue to firm up as it cools.

After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour. This will help prevent cracking. Once it has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheesecake has completely chilled and set, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Slice and serve this rich, decadent chocolate cheesecake with the buttery graham cracker crust.

Tips:

• Smoothing the surface: If you want a perfectly smooth cheesecake, after pouring the filling into the pan, gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
• Topping ideas: You can garnish the cheesecake with chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
• For extra texture: Add a handful of chocolate chips or crushed chocolate biscuits on top of the cheesecake before baking for a bit of extra texture.

This decadent chocolate cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust is a perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-chocolatey—sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Enjoy making and indulging in this luxurious treat! 🍫🍰