Indulge in the decadent delight of a Chocolate Glazed Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake, a timeless treasure among cheesecake aficionados. Originally gracing the pages of Bon Appetit around a decade ago, this recipe has stood the test of time, captivating taste buds with its simplicity and stunning presentation. It’s a dessert fit for any occasion, especially those festive holiday gatherings where a show-stopping treat is in order, and its make-ahead convenience adds to its allure.
With a cook time of just one hour and a total preparation time of an hour and fifteen minutes, this recipe promises both efficiency and elegance, making it ideal for those seeking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Let’s delve into the culinary journey of crafting this masterpiece:
Ingredients:
- 6 graham crackers
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 3 packages of cream cheese
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tablespoons of sour cream
- 6 tablespoons of Bailey’s Irish Cream
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Chocolate curls for garnish
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- Chopped chocolate (use chocolate chips for convenience)
Instructions:
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Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Using a food processor, finely grind the graham crackers.
- Add the butter to the ground crackers and blend until thoroughly combined.
- Press the crust mixture onto the bottom (not the sides) of a 9-inch diameter springform pan.
- Bake the crust until it turns a golden brown hue, approximately 8 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven while maintaining the oven’s temperature.
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Crafting the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Incorporate the flour into the cream cheese mixture.
- Gradually add the eggs one at a time, beating just until combined after each addition.
- Mix in the sour cream, Bailey’s Irish Cream, and vanilla extract until all ingredients are fully integrated.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust, noting that it won’t completely fill the pan.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
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Baking to Perfection:
- Reduce the oven temperature to 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Continue baking the cheesecake until it sets, which typically takes around 40 minutes longer.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan on a rack for approximately 10 minutes.
- Run a sharp knife around the sides of the pan to loosen the cake.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool further before transferring it to the refrigerator to chill overnight, ensuring the perfect texture and flavor profile.
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Creating the Glaze:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer over low heat.
- Add the chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) to the cream, stirring continuously until a smooth, velvety glaze forms.
- Allow the glaze to cool to a lukewarm temperature, ensuring it’s ready for the next step.
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Glazing the Cheesecake:
- Carefully release the sides of the springform pan from the cheesecake.
- Place the cheesecake on a rack set over a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Pour the glaze over the cheesecake, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the top and sides, allowing any excess to gracefully drip onto the sheet below.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake until the glaze sets, typically around 30 minutes.
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Finishing Touches:
- Once the glaze has set, transfer the cheesecake to a serving platter, ready to dazzle your guests.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the cheesecake with delicate chocolate curls, elevating its visual appeal and adding a hint of sophistication to each slice.
Now, with each decadent bite of this Chocolate Glazed Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake, savor the harmonious blend of rich cream cheese, indulgent chocolate, and the subtle warmth of Bailey’s Irish Cream, all encased in a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a dessert experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting you to indulge in pure culinary bliss. Whether it’s a festive holiday celebration, a potluck gathering, or simply a weeknight treat, this cheesecake is sure to leave a lasting impression, earning its place as a cherished favorite among family and friends alike. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary journey that promises to delight and enchant with every slice.
