Indulge in this creamy, rich chocolate strawberry cheesecake. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this dessert combines layers of smooth chocolate and strawberry flavors in a luscious cheesecake.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 4 tbsp melted butter
For the cheesecake filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 6 oz melted semi-sweet chocolate
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
For the chocolate ganache topping:
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
For garnish:
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and mix. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in the sour cream until the batter is creamy.
- Divide the filling: Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the crust. Fold the melted chocolate into the remaining filling, then add the chopped strawberries, and gently mix. Pour this chocolate-strawberry mixture on top of the first layer in the pan.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Prepare the ganache topping: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a bowl and let sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth, then let cool for 5 minutes.
- Assemble and chill: Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, top with fresh strawberries.