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The BEST Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

This chocolate cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers—rich, creamy, and baked to perfection with an Oreo cookie crust and luxurious chocolate filling. A showstopping treat that's perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a well-earned indulgence.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Chilling Time 6 hours
Total Time 7 hours 25 minutes
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

For the crust:

  • 24 Oreo cookies with filling
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted

For the filling:

  • 4 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 8 oz semisweet or bittersweet chocolate melted and slightly cooled
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder optional but enhances flavor

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom in two layers of foil.
  • Crush Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
  • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
  • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla, mixing well.
  • Add melted chocolate and sour cream. Beat until combined.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating on low and scraping down the sides.
  • Pour filling over cooled crust. Tap pan on counter to release air bubbles.
  • Place pan in a larger roasting pan and fill outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides.
  • Bake for 55–65 minutes, until center is almost set. It should still jiggle slightly.
  • Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake sit inside for 1 hour.
  • Remove from oven, cool to room temp, then chill at least 6 hours or overnight.

Notes

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
  • Don’t overmix—this can lead to cracks.
  • Use a water bath to prevent the cheesecake from drying out or cracking.
  • Chill overnight for best flavor and texture.
  • Wipe the knife with a warm, damp towel between slices for clean cuts.