Description
This Vanilla Cheesecake with a rich Chocolate Crust is a decadent dessert featuring a smooth, creamy vanilla filling atop a crunchy chocolate cookie base. Baked to perfection and topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh strawberries, this cheesecake is perfect for any special occasion or indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups crushed chocolate cookies
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed chocolate cookies, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to set it. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a silky texture.
- Add Remaining Filling Ingredients: Incorporate the sour cream, vanilla extract, and milk into the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and silky.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually. After that, let it come to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight for best taste and texture.
- Prepare the Topping: Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake evenly.
- Decorate and Serve: Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh strawberries on top of the whipped cream for an elegant and delicious finish. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; it should still jiggle slightly in the center when done.
- Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the cheesecake to set properly before serving.
- Fresh strawberries complement the rich chocolate and vanilla flavors for a balanced dessert.
