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This creamy coffee cheesecake brings together the bold flavors of espresso and chocolate in a delightful dessert that always impresses. If you are searching for a crowd-pleasing treat that feels special yet manageable to prepare, this cheesecake is a fantastic option. The combination of an Oreo crust, smooth coffee-infused filling, lush ganache, and coffee whipped cream makes each bite a luxurious experience.
When I first made this cheesecake for a family dinner, it quickly became the centerpiece everyone talked about. Now it is requested every year for birthdays and holidays and always disappears faster than I expect.
Ingredients
- Oreos: Choose classic chocolate sandwich cookies for deep flavor and a crumbly base Always pick fresh cookies for best texture
- Espresso powder: Use a high quality espresso powder for bold coffee notes A fresh jar ensures strong aroma
- Butter: Unsalted and melted binds the crust smoothly Use good quality for a clean and rich base
- Cream cheese: Full fat and at room temperature guarantees smoothness and creamy result Softened cream cheese avoids lumps
- Sour cream: Room temperature adds a subtle tang and helps achieve a velvety texture
- Granulated sugar: Balances the bitterness of coffee Use fine sugar for even blending
- Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla rounds out flavors and adds warmth Look for real extract instead of imitation
- Eggs and yolk: Room temperature eggs create a silky filling and add structure Use fresh and large eggs if possible
- Cornstarch: Sifted and fresh acts as a stabilizer for the filling preventing it from being too loose
- Dark chocolate: High quality chocolate makes all the difference in a glossy ganache Choose one with at least 60 percent cocoa
- Heavy cream: Use for both ganache and whipped cream Cold heavy cream whips up faster and holds peaks better
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold shape Always sift for a lump free finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan and Oven:
- Line a nine inch springform pan with parchment paper on the bottom and sides Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit so everything is ready and even
- Make the Oreo Crust:
- Crush Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or zip top bag and rolling pin Mix the crumbs with espresso powder and melted butter until evenly moistened Press firmly into the base of your pan for a compact crust
- Bake the Crust:
- Bake the crust for about eight minutes This step crisps the crust and locks the flavors Let it cool to room temperature before you add the filling
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Reduce oven temperature to 140 degrees Celsius or 280 degrees Fahrenheit Beat room temperature cream cheese with sugar sour cream and vanilla on medium speed Blend until creamy with no lumps Add eggs and yolk one at a time mixing gently after each Only mix until just combined Sift in cornstarch and espresso powder Fold together until smooth and blended
- Pour and Bake Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust Use a spatula to even the top Tap the pan a few times to release air bubbles Bake for about one hour until the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble
- Cool Gradually:
- Once done baking turn off oven and crack the door Allow the cheesecake to cool inside for about one to two hours so the temperature drops slowly Wrap the cooled cheesecake and chill in the fridge for at least five hours or overnight
- Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- Melt chocolate and heavy cream with espresso powder in the microwave for a minute Stir together until smooth and glossy Allow to cool before spreading
- Top with Ganache and Whipped Cream:
- Spread ganache over the cold cheesecake Chill briefly while you prepare the whipped cream Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar espresso powder and vanilla until stiff Pipe or spoon onto the cheesecake for a beautiful finish
- Serve:
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices Add chocolate shavings or curls for extra flair
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The whipped coffee cream is always my favorite part It is so silky and fluffy and really takes the coffee experience to the next level Once my sister and I learned how to whip cream perfectly every time it became our secret weapon for making this cheesecake unforgettable
Storage Tips
You can store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about five days For longer storage wrap slices individually and freeze up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving The flavors actually deepen after a day or two so do not be afraid to make this ahead
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Oreos try chocolate wafer cookies or even regular graham crackers with a little extra espresso powder For a nutty twist use ground almonds in the crust You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten up the texture Swap in milk chocolate for the ganache if you prefer a sweeter finish
Serving Suggestions
Fresh berries add brightness and color while a shot of espresso or a latte on the side makes for a complete café dessert moment If you are feeling creative arrange chocolate shavings or caramel drizzle across the top for extra drama Sometimes a light fruit salad on the side helps balance the richness
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Cultural Note
Cheesecake traces its origins back to ancient Greece while coffee flavored cheesecakes are more of a modern twist popularized in coffee loving cultures The marriage of these flavors in dessert form is a nod to café culture where friends gather to linger over coffee and sweets
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent cracks in a coffee cheesecake?
Allow all ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing, avoid overbeating, and cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar to reduce sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.
- → What kind of coffee works best for flavoring?
Espresso powder is preferred for a pronounced coffee flavor without excess liquid. Instant coffee granules can also be used as an alternative.
- → Can I substitute graham crackers for the Oreo crust?
Yes! Graham cracker crumbs or even nut-based crusts offer unique textures and flavors as alternatives to the classic Oreo crust.
- → How long should I chill the cheesecake before serving?
Cheesecake should be refrigerated for at least 5 hours or overnight to achieve the right texture and flavor integration.
- → What's the best way to achieve smooth cheesecake consistency?
Mix cream cheese and other filling ingredients just until combined, then bake low and slow, using a water bath if desired, for a creamy result.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the cheesecake a day in advance, cover it tightly, and add toppings just before serving.