Rich Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Indulge in the decadent delight of a Rich Chocolate Cheesecake, a dessert that promises to be the crown jewel of any gathering. With a luscious chocolate flavor combined with the creamy richness of mascarpone and cream cheese, this cheesecake is not just a treat for the palate, but also a feast for the eyes. Follow this recipe to create a show-stopping dessert that will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bourbon Biscuits (or any other biscuits of your choice) | 250 grams |
| Butter (for the biscuit base) | 100 grams (melted) |
| Dark chocolate (roughly chopped, preferably Bournville) | 450 grams |
| Butter (for the chocolate sauce) | 50 grams |
| Cocoa Powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Britannia Cream Cheese (room temperature) | 650 grams |
| Mascarpone Cheese | 350 grams |
| Caster Sugar | 200 grams |
| Whole Eggs | 4 |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Strawberry Compote (or fresh raspberries) | For serving |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~500 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Total Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Sugars | 25 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 780 minutes (including cooling time)
- Total Time: 800 minutes (approximately 13 hours, including refrigeration)
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: Continental
- Course: Dessert
- Diet: Eggetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This essential step ensures that the cheesecake will bake evenly, creating that perfect, velvety texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Biscuit Base
In a food processor, crush the Bourbon biscuits until they form fine crumbs, reminiscent of soft sand. Add the melted butter to the crumbs and pulse until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Pour this buttery biscuit mixture into a springform pan and press it down evenly to form a solid base. Place the pan in the refrigerator to allow the crust to firm up while you prepare the cheesecake batter.
Step 3: Create the Chocolate Sauce
To make the rich chocolate sauce, use the double boiler method. In a saucepan, combine the roughly chopped dark chocolate with 50 grams of butter. Set this saucepan over another bowl filled with simmering water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, stir in the cocoa powder until fully integrated, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the Britannia cream cheese and caster sugar. Beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This method helps to achieve a creamy texture. Once combined, gently fold in the cooled chocolate sauce, ensuring it blends seamlessly into the cheesecake mixture. Finally, add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser cheesecake.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake
Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over the chilled biscuit base, smoothing the top with a spatula. To prevent any water from seeping into the cheesecake during baking, wrap the outside of the springform pan in aluminum foil. This creates a barrier that keeps the batter safe while baking.
Step 6: Baking the Cheesecake
To create a moist environment for the cheesecake, place a roasting tin filled with hot water on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Then, set the springform pan on top of this tin. This steaming method helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks from forming on the surface. Bake the cheesecake for approximately 45 minutes. It should jiggle slightly in the center when you gently shake the pan, indicating that it is cooked but still has that perfect, creamy consistency.
Step 7: Cooling and Chilling
Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 12 hours (or overnight). This resting period is crucial for developing the cheesecake’s rich flavor and ensuring it sets perfectly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Cut the cheesecake into wedges of your desired size. For a delightful finish, top each slice with fresh raspberries or a dollop of strawberry compote, adding a tart contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
Serve this elegant Rich Chocolate Cheesecake after a meal of Lemon Coriander Soup and a Schezwan Noodle Sandwich for a well-rounded dining experience that will leave everyone impressed.
This Rich Chocolate Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it is an experience that celebrates the harmonious blend of chocolate and cream, making it the perfect centerpiece for any occasion. Whether it’s a special gathering or a simple family dinner, this cheesecake is sure to delight every chocolate lover at the table. Enjoy each velvety slice and watch as it becomes a cherished recipe in your collection.
