Fabulous Fudge Cheesecake
A rich and creamy fudge cheesecake with a chocolate crust and smooth filling, perfect for chocolate lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs, confectioners sugar, and cocoa; stir in melted butter.
- Press the mixture onto the bottom of a greased 9-inch spring-form pan to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla; continue beating until well combined.
- Stir in melted and cooled semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the spring-form pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until the center is set.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely, then refrigerate for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you don't have vanilla wafer crumbs, graham cracker crumbs can be a great substitute. Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing, and be careful not to overbeat after adding the eggs to avoid cracking during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fudge cheesecake chilled, topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and makes a delightful dessert for any occasion, especially when accompanied by a slice of Classic Strawberry Shortcake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, keeping them for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fabulous Fudge Cheesecake contains roughly 599 calories, with 12g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. Simply prepare it and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar texture and richer flavor. Alternatively, a vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free version, but check the consistency for best results.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to cracks and a dry texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).