Description
This luscious Vanilla Cheesecake with Chocolate Crust features a rich and creamy vanilla-flavored filling atop a crunchy chocolate cookie crust. Finished with a smooth whipped cream topping, chocolate shavings, and fresh strawberries, it’s a decadent dessert perfect for any special occasion or gathering.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups crushed chocolate cookies
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the crushed chocolate cookies, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool, allowing the crust to firm up before adding the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and milk until the batter is smooth and silky without lumps, ensuring a rich and creamy texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled chocolate crust, spreading it evenly for uniform thickness.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but retains a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually, preventing cracks.
- Chill: After the cheesecake reaches room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavor.
- Decorate: Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake, then garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh strawberries for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; the slight jiggle in the center ensures it stays creamy and moist.
- Cooling the cheesecake gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly for best texture and flavor development.
- Use a springform pan to easily remove the cheesecake without damaging the crust or sides.
- Fresh strawberries can be substituted with other berries or fruits as preferred.