Description
This rich and creamy mocha cheesecake combines the bold flavors of espresso and cocoa with a luscious cream cheese filling on a chocolate cookie crust. Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache, this no-bake cheesecake is perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers looking for an indulgent dessert that is refrigerated instead of baked for the filling.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 200 grams (about 2 cups) chocolate cookies, crushed
- 100 grams (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 450 grams (16 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 150 grams (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) espresso, cooled
- 30 grams (1/4 cup) cocoa powder
- 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 100 grams (3.5 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the crushed chocolate cookies with the melted unsalted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the Crust: Place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for about 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool completely to set.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the granulated sugar while continuing to mix.
- Add Mocha Flavor: Stir in the cooled espresso, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture until everything is fully combined.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep it light and airy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the surface evenly using a spatula.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cheesecake to set properly.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just boiling, then pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake and serve. Optionally, refrigerate again for 15 minutes to set the ganache before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Espresso should be cooled before adding to avoid curdling the cream cheese.
- For a more intense mocha flavor, use strong brewed espresso or instant espresso powder dissolved in water.
- You can substitute the chocolate cookies with graham crackers mixed with cocoa powder for a different texture.
- Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water between cuts to slice the cheesecake neatly.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
