This Kahlua Chocolate Cheesecake is an irresistible dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the smoothness of cream cheese. The addition of Kahlua liqueur adds a delightful twist to this classic cheesecake recipe. With its buttery crust and creamy filling, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Prepare to indulge in a slice of heaven with this decadent and delicious Kahlua Chocolate Cheesecake.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- - 1 and 3/4 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- - 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- - 1 cup granulated sugar
- - 1/3 cup Kahlua liqueur
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- - 4 eggs
- - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- For the Ganache Topping:
- - 1 cup heavy cream
- - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- - Optional: chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter for the crust. Stir until well mixed.
- Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, covering the bottom evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Kahlua liqueur and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the melted chocolate chips until evenly distributed in the cream cheese filling.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the center is set.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Gently run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake. Remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the ganache topping, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips and unsalted butter until smooth and shiny.
- Let the ganache cool and thicken slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake.
- Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
- Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or dust with cocoa powder.
- Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator for another 1-2 hours to allow the ganache to set.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!