Decadent Chocolate Pecan Cheesecake Delight

Chocolate & Pecan Cheesecake

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of our Chocolate & Pecan Cheesecake, a perfect blend of velvety chocolate and crunchy pecans nestled in a buttery crust. This dessert is an absolute treat for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re planning a special gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

Total Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• Crust:

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1 3/4 cups vanilla wafer crumbs

• Filling:

  • 24 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 cup maple syrup
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2/3 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces
  • 3/4 cup pecans, chopped

• For Garnish:

  • 3/4 cup pecans, whole
  • Grated chocolate (optional)
  • Powdered icing sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the ideal temperature for baking your cheesecake to perfection.

2. Prepare Pan: Grease an 8-inch springform pan thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent the cheesecake from sticking and ensures a smooth release once it’s baked.

3. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter with the vanilla wafer crumbs. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly onto the bottom of the greased springform pan to form a solid base for your cheesecake.

4. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large bowl, beat the ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the maple syrup and eggs to the ricotta, and continue beating until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a low boil. Remove from heat and stir in the broken pieces of chocolate until fully melted and smooth. Allow this mixture to cool slightly.
   • Blend the cooled chocolate mixture into the ricotta mixture, ensuring it is evenly incorporated.
   • Fold in 3/4 cup of the chopped pecans.

5. Assemble and Bake:

   • Pour the filling into the prepared crust in the springform pan.
   • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. The cheesecake is done when it is set in the center and the edges are slightly firm.

6. Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool thoroughly on a wire rack. Once cooled, wrap the cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.

7. Serve:

   • Before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Arrange whole pecans around the outer edge of the cheesecake.
   • For an extra touch, sprinkle the top with grated chocolate and powdered icing sugar if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 516.5
• Fat Content: 48.6g
• Saturated Fat Content: 23.8g
• Cholesterol Content: 107.3mg
• Sodium Content: 118.6mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 18.3g
• Fiber Content: 6.8g
• Sugar Content: 4.8g
• Protein Content: 15g

This Chocolate & Pecan Cheesecake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a luscious treat for your taste buds. The combination of smooth ricotta cheese and rich chocolate, paired with the nutty crunch of pecans, creates a dessert that is both sophisticated and comforting. Enjoy making and sharing this exquisite dessert from Love With Recipes! 🍫🥜🎂