Rich Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

This rich and decadent hot chocolate cheesecake blends the cozy warmth of hot cocoa with velvety smooth cheesecake. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and delicate chocolate shavings, it’s the ultimate dessert for chilly evenings or special gatherings.

I first made this cheesecake for a holiday party and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared. It has since become my go-to dessert whenever friends come over.

Ingredients You Need

• Chocolate sandwich cookies: crushed to create a crunchy, chocolatey crust. Choose ones without filling for best texture
• Butter: melted to bind the crust ingredients together giving a rich, savory base
• Granulated sugar: added to the crust for subtle sweetness
• Cream cheese: softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy filling
• Granulated sugar: to sweeten the cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering
• Large eggs: at room temperature helping to create a silky batter and proper rise
• Sour cream: adds moisture and a slight tang balancing the sweetness
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: to deepen the chocolate flavor naturally without extra sugar
• Hot chocolate mix: gives an extra layer of warmth and nostalgic flavor reminiscent of childhood treats
• Vanilla extract: rounds out the taste with fragrant sweetness
• Salt: enhances the chocolate notes and balances flavors
• Heavy whipping cream: for the topping to bring lightness and richness
• Powdered sugar: sweetens the whip cream gently without grittiness
• Mini marshmallows: provide a playful and nostalgic topping adding texture and chew
• Chocolate shavings: garnish the finish with elegance and extra cocoa punch

Detailed Cooking Directions

Buy or prepare a springform pan and preheat your oven to 325°F:

Wrap the outside of the pan with foil to prevent water from leaking during the water bath

Create the Crust:

Mix the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture evenly onto the bottom of the foil-wrapped pan to form the crust. Bake in the oven for about 8 minutes until set and slightly firm to touch

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating to combine fully. Add eggs one at a time, blending after each addition to ensure an even batter

Add Flavor to the Batter:

Stir in sour cream, cocoa powder, hot chocolate mix, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is fully incorporated creating a luscious chocolate filling

Pour and Set:

Place the cheesecake filling over the baked crust and smooth the top evenly. Position the springform pan inside a larger baking dish or roasting pan filled halfway with hot water to create a water bath. This will help prevent cracks and promote even baking

Bake Gently:

Bake the cheesecake in the water bath for 55 to 65 minutes. The edges should be set while the center still jiggles lightly when nudged

Cool Slowly:

After removing from the oven, leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This slow cooling process helps avoid cracks on the surface

Chill Thoroughly:

Refrigerate the cheesecake for a minimum of four hours or ideally overnight to allow it to fully set and develop its flavors

Top and Decorate:

Before serving, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cheesecake. Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings generously on top for a festive finish

This cheesecake has been the star dessert at several family get-togethers. The marshmallow-topped version always sparks conversations and happy memories of winter evenings spent around a crackling fire. It’s become a lovely tradition that ties our family to the warmth and joy of the season.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the cake from absorbing other odors. It will keep well for up to four days When ready to serve again, let the cheesecake sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for a creamier texture and more pronounced flavors You can also freeze portions wrapped snugly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results

Ingredient Variations

Try swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt to add a slightly tangier and thicker texture For a robust chocolate taste, add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter Replace mini marshmallows with crushed peppermint candies around the holidays for a festive twist

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve alongside a cup of strong black coffee to balance the sweetness A glass of rich red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon complements the deep chocolate flavors well Fresh berries such as raspberries add a bright contrast and a pop of color to your plate

Seasonal Makeovers

Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the filling mix for a cozy holiday vibe During springtime, top with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of white chocolate sauce for light sweetness In autumn, sprinkle toasted pecans on the whipped cream topping to bring warm nuttiness to the cheesecake

With this recipe in your kitchen repertoire, you can easily create a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a wonderful way to bring the magic of hot chocolate into a cheesecake that everyone will adore.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of crust is used?

A crushed chocolate sandwich cookie crust mixed with melted butter forms the rich, crunchy base.

→ How is the filling baked to avoid cracks?

Baking the cheesecake in a water bath at a moderate temperature prevents cracks and promotes even cooking.

→ Why should cream cheese and eggs be room temperature?

Allowing these ingredients to reach room temperature ensures a smoother batter and a more uniform texture.

→ What gives the cheesecake its hot chocolate flavor?

Unsweetened cocoa powder combined with hot chocolate mix infuses the filling with rich chocolate warmth.

→ How long should the dessert be chilled?

Chilling for at least four hours or overnight helps the cheesecake set and enhances the texture.

→ What toppings complement the cheesecake?

Whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings add lightness, sweetness, and visual appeal.