Ingredients
Equipment
Method
How to Make:
- Step 1: Prepare the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed chocolate wafers, melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Step 2: Melt the chocolate. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt 10 ounces of the Godiva 72% dark chocolate bars with the 1/4 cup of hot brewed coffee and the 1/4 cup of very hot water. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
- Step 3: Make the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of granulated sugar and continue to beat until fully incorporated. Add the melted chocolate mixture and 1/4 teaspoon of salt, mixing until well combined.
- Step 4: Add the eggs and vanilla. Add the 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, mix in the 1/2 tablespoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
- Step 5: Bake the cheesecake. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Step 6: Cool and chill. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour. Afterward, transfer it to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Step 7: Prepare the ganache topping. In a small saucepan, heat 1/3 cup of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the 7 ounces of finely chopped Godiva dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.
- Step 8: Whip the cream. In a clean mixing bowl, whip 1 1/4 cups of cold heavy whipping cream with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the ganache layer for an extra touch of creaminess.
- Step 9: Serve and enjoy. Release the sides of the springform pan, slice the cheesecake, and serve it chilled. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness with friends and family!
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is room temperature for smooth batter.
- Let the cheesecake cool slowly to prevent cracks.
