No-Bake Dark Chocolate Cheesecake

No-Bake Dark Chocolate Cheesecake

"This no-bake dark chocolate cheesecake features a rich and creamy filling made with sweetened condensed milk and dark chocolate, set on a crushed Oreo cookie crust. Topped with a thick layer of whipped cream, piped rosettes, chocolate shavings, and garnished with fresh strawberry slices, it's a decadent and elegant dessert perfect for any occasion."

Did You Know?

Dark chocolate is not only delicious but also has numerous health benefits. It's rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage. Dark chocolate can improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow. It also contains flavonoids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. When enjoyed in moderation, dark chocolate can be a delightful and beneficial addition to your diet. Incorporating dark chocolate into desserts like this no-bake cheesecake not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of sophistication.

Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients:

Oreo Cookie Crust:

• 2 cups crushed Oreo cookies (about 24 cookies)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Dark Chocolate Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

Whipped Cream Topping:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Garnish:

• Dark chocolate shavings
• Fresh strawberries sliced in half

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to press it down evenly. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
   • Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined and smooth.
   • Gradually add the melted dark chocolate and continue to beat until fully incorporated.
   • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake:

   • Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, to set.

4. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:

   • In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
   • Spread a thick layer of whipped cream over the set cheesecake. Transfer the remaining whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and pipe rosettes around the top edge.

5. Garnish:

   • Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the top of the whipped cream.
   • Garnish with slices of fresh strawberry.

6. Serve:

   • Chill the assembled cheesecake for an additional hour to set the toppings before serving. Enjoy this rich and creamy no-bake dark chocolate cheesecake!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 450, Protein: 7g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Sugars: 25g, Total Fat: 35g, Saturated Fat: 20g, Sodium: 250mg, Fiber: 3g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Oreo Cookie Crust: Use store-brand sandwich cookies to save money. You can also use chocolate graham crackers for a different texture.
2. Dark Chocolate: For a more intense flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. Buying in bulk can save costs and ensures you always have chocolate on hand for baking.
3. Sweetened Condensed Milk: Make sure to use full-fat sweetened condensed milk for a creamier texture. It provides sweetness and a rich, velvety consistency to the cheesecake filling.
4. Cream Cheese: Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free filling. Store brands can be a more economical choice without compromising quality.
5. Whipping Cream: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream to achieve better volume and consistency. This helps in creating stiff peaks quickly.
6. Decorating Tips: Use a vegetable peeler to create chocolate shavings from a block of dark chocolate. This gives a professional touch to the presentation.
7. Strawberry Garnish: Fresh strawberries add a touch of color and freshness to the dessert. You can also use other berries like raspberries or blueberries for variety.
8. Serving Tips: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting the cheesecake. This prevents the filling from sticking to the knife and gives neat slices.
9. Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for parties and gatherings. The flavors meld together beautifully when it has time to set properly.
10. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cheesecake can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

By incorporating these tips, you'll create a decadent and visually appealing No-Bake Dark Chocolate Cheesecake that is both delicious and economical. Enjoy the rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture in every bite! This cheesecake is sure to impress at any gathering, providing a sophisticated and indulgent dessert option. Happy baking!