Description
This rich and creamy Espresso Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety espresso-infused filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, making it a perfect treat for coffee lovers and a showstopper at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon hot water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
- Espresso beans (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, packing it tightly and evenly.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Gradually add granulated sugar and continue to beat until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
- In a small bowl, dissolve espresso powder in hot water. Add to the cream cheese mixture and mix until fully combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined.
- Add sour cream and heavy cream, mixing on low speed until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the wrapped pan in a larger baking dish and fill with hot water until halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and water bath, and allow to cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate, espresso powder, and sugar. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
- Top with chocolate shavings and espresso beans before serving.
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Notes
- For best results, allow the cheesecake to chill overnight.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Use a water bath to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes