Matt'S Favorite Chocolate Cheesecake
A rich and decadent chocolate cheesecake featuring a smooth cream cheese filling, chocolate glaze, and a crunchy cookie crust, perfect for chocolate lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt together 1 pound of good cooking chocolate and 2 ounces of butter. Cool.
- Stir in 8 ounces of sour cream.
- Beat 2 pounds of cream cheese and 8 ounces of sugar until smooth.
- Add 5 eggs slowly, one at a time, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla, beating well after each addition.
- Slowly beat in the melted chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
- Pour the filling into a baked crust made of 8 ounces of chocolate cookies combined with 2 ounces of melted butter.
- Bake in a water bath at 325°F for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and cool.
- Prepare the glaze by melting 4 ounces of chocolate with 4 ounces of cream, then cool slightly.
- Spread the glaze over the cooled cheesecake.
- Sprinkle with cocoa powder before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the chocolate cookies with gluten-free cookies. Always allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar to prevent cracking. Use a water bath to ensure even baking, which can be helpful for achieving a smooth texture, similar to Mrs. Ledbetter'S Chocolate Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesecake chilled, garnished with whipped cream or fresh berries for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a rich dessert wine. For a twist, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Apple Kuchen Cake for a delightful dessert experience.
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 foil, storing them for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Matt'S Favorite Chocolate Cheesecake contains roughly 1125 calories, with 18g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use semi-sweet or even white chocolate for a variation on the flavor. Just be mindful that this may alter the sweetness and texture of the cheesecake. Adjust the sugar accordingly to balance the flavors.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to cracks and a dry texture.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream, providing a similar tanginess and creaminess. You could also use cream cheese mixed with a little lemon juice for a comparable flavor profile.
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).