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Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

4.7 from 91 reviews

This Hot Chocolate Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the nostalgic flavors of hot cocoa and marshmallows. Featuring an Oreo cookie crust, a luscious chocolate-infused cream cheese filling, and a silky chocolate ganache topping, this dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 20 Oreo cookies – crushed
  • 4 tablespoons butter – melted
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Cheesecake Filling

  • 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese – softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 3 hot cocoa packs with marshmallows (about 1.5 oz total)
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 eggs

Ganache Topping

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • ½ cup good quality chocolate chips

Garnish

  • Whipped cream
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Chocolate shavings

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick spray and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Crust: Place Oreo cookies into a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. Add melted butter and salt, then mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
  3. Form the Crust: Pour the cookie crumb mixture into the bottom of the springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to press the crumbs firmly and evenly to form the crust, bringing the crumbs about 1 inch up the sides of the pan.
  4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and allow it to cool completely.
  5. Mix Cream Cheese: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and lump-free. Scrape the bowl sides occasionally.
  6. Add Sugar and Flour: Add the granulated sugar and flour to the cream cheese and mix just until combined.
  7. Add Hot Cocoa Mix: Incorporate the hot cocoa packets (including the marshmallows) into the mixture and blend until just combined.
  8. Whip in Heavy Cream: Pour in the 2 cups of heavy whipping cream. Start mixing on low speed, gradually increasing to high. Whip on high for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.
  9. Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing each until just combined. Scrape down the sides and give one final mix to ensure a smooth batter.
  10. Pour and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees F. Without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 200 degrees F and bake for an additional 50-55 minutes until the center slightly jiggles like Jell-o.
  11. Rest in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for 30 minutes to settle.
  12. Cool Gradually: Crack the oven door open and let the cheesecake cool inside for another 15 minutes, then remove it and cool completely on a wire rack to room temperature.
  13. Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight to fully set.
  14. Prepare Ganache: Heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a microwave-safe dish for about 1 minute until hot. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes to soften, then whisk until smooth and thickened.
  15. Top the Cheesecake: Allow ganache to cool about 5 minutes, then pour evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Smooth ganache with a spatula.
  16. Garnish and Serve: Decorate with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Be sure not to overmix the batter once eggs are added to avoid cracking during baking.
  • The cheesecake center should still jiggle slightly when done; it will firm up during cooling.
  • You can substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips for variety in the ganache.
  • For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and heavy whipping cream to achieve a rich texture.
  • Allow the cheesecake to fully chill to develop flavors and achieve proper firmness.

Keywords: hot chocolate cheesecake, chocolate dessert, Oreo crust cheesecake, creamy cheesecake recipe, winter dessert