Description
This luxurious cheesecake features a graham cracker crust, a rich chocolate filling, and is topped with decadent chocolate ganache and chocolate-covered strawberries. Perfect for any special occasion or when you simply want to indulge.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
For the Chocolate Covered Strawberries:
- 12 large strawberries
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
For Decoration:
- Whipped cream
- Shaved chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, then eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and melted dark chocolate until well combined.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Dip each strawberry in melted dark chocolate mixed with coconut oil. Place on a parchment-lined tray and allow to set.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over dark chocolate chips and stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
- Top the Cheesecake: Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
- Add the Chocolate Covered Strawberries: Arrange the chocolate-covered strawberries on top of the ganache.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with whipped cream and shaved chocolate before serving.
Notes
- Serving Tip: For a clean slice, use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes