Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs (or regular graham cracker crumbs)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup raspberry jam or preserves
For the chocolate ganache:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool while you prepare the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
- Gently fold in the raspberries and raspberry jam, making sure not to crush the raspberries too much.
- Assemble the cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake mixture into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour in the oven with the door slightly ajar. Then, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Make the chocolate ganache:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Top the cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, pour the chocolate ganache over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Decorate with fresh raspberries on top for a beautiful finish.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled. Enjoy the rich combination of chocolate, raspberry, and cheesecake!
Feel free to adjust the amount of raspberries or chocolate ganache to your liking.