Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
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.
- Author: Naya
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and allow it to cool completely.
- 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.
- Add Sugar and Flour: Add the granulated sugar and flour to the cream cheese and mix just until combined.
- Add Hot Cocoa Mix: Incorporate the hot cocoa packets (including the marshmallows) into the mixture and blend until just combined.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Rest in Oven: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for 30 minutes to settle.
- 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.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours or overnight to fully set.
- 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.
- Top the Cheesecake: Allow ganache to cool about 5 minutes, then pour evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Smooth ganache with a spatula.
- 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