Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake

Short Description

Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake is a decadent dessert with a creamy mascarpone filling, rich chocolate flavor, and a buttery cookie crust. Perfectly balanced between light and indulgent, this cheesecake is a luxurious treat for any special occasion or chocolate lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The mascarpone cheese adds a velvety, smooth texture and a hint of sweetness.
• Combines the richness of chocolate with a light, creamy filling.
• A simple yet impressive dessert for holidays, celebrations, or romantic dinners.
• Easy to make ahead and serve when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust

• Chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed, like Oreos)
• Unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling

• Mascarpone cheese (softened)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Dark chocolate (melted and slightly cooled)
• Heavy cream
• Cocoa powder
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

For the Topping

• Dark chocolate (chopped)
• Heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill the crust while preparing the filling.
2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat mascarpone cheese, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add melted chocolate, cocoa powder, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid overbeating.
5. Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
7. Make the topping: Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until steaming (but not boiling). Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth, then pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake.
8. Chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
• Chill Time: 4–6 hours

Variations

• Add a splash of espresso or coffee liqueur for a mocha-flavored cheesecake.
• Use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter filling.
• Top with fresh berries, crushed hazelnuts, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra texture and flavor.
• Swap the chocolate cookie crust for a graham cracker crust for a more traditional base.

Storage/Reheating

• Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
• Freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. What is mascarpone cheese, and can I substitute it?

Mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese with a sweeter, creamier texture. You can substitute it with regular cream cheese, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate will create a sweeter cheesecake with a slightly lighter chocolate flavor.

3. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven. Avoid overmixing the batter.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.

5. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?

A springform pan is ideal for easy release, but you can use a standard cake pan lined with parchment paper for easier removal.

6. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center should still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

7. Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Yes, you can add orange zest, almond extract, or a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist.

8. Can I use whipped topping instead of ganache?

Yes, whipped topping is a lighter alternative and pairs well with the creamy cheesecake.

9. How far in advance can I make this cheesecake?

You can prepare it up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator until serving.

10. What’s the best way to slice the cheesecake cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between each slice.

Conclusion

Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake is an elegant dessert that combines the luxurious creaminess of mascarpone with rich chocolate flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. Its silky texture and decadent taste make it a dessert worth savoring.

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