Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (like Oreos)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
- Optional: Chocolate ganache or whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling. Wrap the outside of the pan in two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the bake.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together on medium speed until completely smooth and fluffy. Add the sifted cocoa powder and vanilla extract, mixing until incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until combined—do not overmix. Fold in the sour cream and the melted chocolate using a spatula. Pour the batter over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake for 60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for one hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and take off the aluminum foil. Run a thin knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the sides. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set fully. When ready to serve, release the springform ring. Slice the cheesecake using a warm, clean knife for the neatest cuts. Top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache, fresh raspberries, or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly viral-worthy presentation.
- Cook Time: 80 minutes