A Rich Creamy No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake for Special Occasions
Family dinners are always special, but when the whole crew gets together, I know there’s one thing they all expect—chocolate! For our last gathering, I wanted to create a dessert that was rich and indulgent but didn’t require me to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I decided on this no-bake chocolate cheesecake. I could prepare it in the morning and have it ready by the time everyone arrived, leaving me plenty of time to focus on dinner. Plus, it needed just a few hours in the fridge, which meant I wasn’t rushing around with dessert while finishing up the meal. As soon as dinner was over, I brought out this creamy, chocolatey delight, and it was a huge hit, not too heavy, a great finish to the meal! It is satisfying having an easy, make-ahead dessert that impresses—especially when chocolate is involved. This cheesecake is a family favorite now, perfect for any occasion where we’re all gathered.
Did You Know?
Chocolate, especially when it’s 70% cocoa or higher, is loaded with antioxidants called flavonoids, which are known to benefit heart health. These flavonoids can help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and lower blood pressure. Additionally, dark chocolate may boost brain function and even improve mood. When combined with the creamy texture of cheesecake, this dessert becomes a luxurious treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers some surprising health benefits. So the next time you're indulging in chocolate, know that you’re getting more than just a rich, decadent flavor—you’re also doing something good for your heart.
Yield:
8 servings
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, melted
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Garnish:
Whipped cream for piping or dolloping
Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated with butter.
Personal Tip: Use the bottom of a glass to press the crumbs firmly into the springform pan for a smooth, even crust.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Personal Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
Personal Tip: Gradually add the powdered sugar to prevent any mess from flying out of the bowl.
Gradually add the melted chocolate, beating until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
Personal Tip: Chilled beaters and a chilled bowl will help the cream whip faster and more evenly.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Personal Tip: Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles trapped in the filling.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Personal Tip: For the best texture and flavor, chill the cheesecake overnight.
Garnish and Serve:
Pipe or dollop whipped cream onto each of the 8 servings.
Personal Tip: Garnish with fresh strawberries just before serving for a beautiful contrast of colors and flavors.
Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve chilled.
Personal Tip: Run a knife under hot water and dry it before slicing for clean, even cuts.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 | Protein: 7g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Sugars: 25g | Total Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Sodium: 220mg | Fiber: 2g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Choosing Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Semi-sweet chocolate chips work well, but you can also use dark chocolate for a richer taste.
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Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to ensure a smooth filling. You can leave it at room temperature for about an hour.
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Crust Options: If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for the crust.
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Stiff Peaks: When whipping the cream, make sure to beat it until stiff peaks form. This ensures that the filling will hold its shape.
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Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
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Budget-Friendly Tips: Buy cream cheese in bulk when it’s on sale and store it in the refrigerator. Look for deals on chocolate chips, which can often be found at a discount during holiday baking seasons.
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Decorating: For an elegant presentation, use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from a chocolate bar. Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries just before serving.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve the cheesecake with fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a delightful contrast in flavor.
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Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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Portion Control: Slice the cheesecake into even portions to ensure each serving has a consistent calorie count.
Let’s Learn A Bit About Springform Pans
If you’ve ever wondered what makes a springform pan so special, it’s all about its design. Unlike regular cake pans, a springform pan has sides that can be removed by releasing a latch. This makes it perfect for delicate desserts like cheesecakes, where you want to maintain a beautiful, smooth edge. When using a springform pan, it’s essential to press the crust evenly into the bottom and refrigerate it before adding the filling. This helps the cheesecake hold its shape once it’s ready to be served. Springform pans are also versatile—you can use them for both baked and no-bake desserts, and even savory dishes like quiches. They’re a must-have for any home baker looking to create impressive, professional-looking treats without the hassle of flipping cakes out of traditional pans.