If you adore the rich, aromatic taste of coffee and the smooth, creamy texture of cheesecake, you are going to fall head over heels for this Coffee Cheesecake Recipe. Combining the perfect chocolate cookie crumb crust with a luscious coffee-infused cream cheese filling, it’s a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, this is the kind of recipe that turns a simple moment into a special celebration with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into baking, let’s glance at the simple yet essential ingredients that make this Coffee Cheesecake Recipe truly exceptional. Each element plays a unique role, from the chocolate cookie crumbs providing a satisfying crunch to the espresso powder delivering that unmistakable coffee punch.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form a deliciously crunchy, chocolatey base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the coffee flavor.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust ingredients together while lending richness.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the filling, providing that signature velvety texture.
- Sour cream: Enhances moisture and tang, making the cheesecake irresistibly creamy.
- Large eggs: Help to set the cheesecake and give structure without heaviness.
- Strong brewed coffee (cooled): Infuses the filling with a deep, invigorating coffee flavor.
- Instant espresso powder: Boosts the coffee intensity for true aficionados.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note to balance the bold coffee taste.
- Heavy cream (optional topping): Whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy finish.
- Powdered sugar (for topping): Sweetens the whipped cream delicately.
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (garnish): Adds a decorative touch and extra chocolate flavor.
How to Make Coffee Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until everything is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer. Bake it for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool while you work on the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps—this will give you that signature creamy texture. Add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, blend in the sour cream, cooled brewed coffee, espresso powder, and vanilla extract until perfectly combined. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated, being careful not to overbeat.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the creamy coffee batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top gently with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. To avoid cracks and help the cheesecake set beautifully, turn off the oven after baking, crack the door open, and leave the cheesecake inside to cool slowly for an hour. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight.
Step 4: Optional Topping
If you want to add an extra touch of elegance, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe this fluffy cream over your chilled cheesecake, then garnish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a stunning finish.
How to Serve Coffee Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To truly elevate the experience of this Coffee Cheesecake Recipe, a few thoughtful garnishes can make all the difference. Think carefully shaved dark chocolate, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or even a few coffee beans artfully arranged on top to cue the coffee flavors that await.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with simple sides like fresh berries, lightly toasted nuts, or a small glass of dessert wine. These accents not only complement the flavors but provide delightful texture contrasts that enhance each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Think about slicing the cheesecake into neat wedges and serving on stylish plates with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. You can also make mini versions in ramekins for an irresistible coffee-themed dessert party, or layer slices with whipped cream and chocolate curls for a decadent coffee cheesecake parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Coffee Cheesecake Recipe is made, leftovers can be tightly wrapped with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and kept refrigerated for up to 4 days without losing any of that creamy goodness.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not generally recommended. However, you can let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors and soften the texture slightly.
FAQs
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?
Absolutely! The recipe calls for both brewed coffee and espresso powder to deepen the flavor, but you can use more brewed coffee or substitute brewed espresso if you prefer a stronger coffee kick. Just be mindful to avoid adding too much liquid to keep the cheesecake texture perfect.
How do I prevent cracks in my coffee cheesecake?
To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake gently at a low temperature and use techniques like a water bath or placing a pan of hot water beneath the cake in the oven. Also, cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
This particular Coffee Cheesecake Recipe is designed for a creamy, dairy-rich experience, so swapping out dairy ingredients will require specialized substitutes and might alter the texture and flavor considerably. Vegan cream cheese and nondairy sour cream exist, but the results may differ from the classic version.
Is it okay to increase the coffee flavor?
Yes, if you’re a true coffee lover, you can certainly increase the espresso powder or use stronger coffee. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, which could affect the cheesecake’s consistency.
What size pan should I use to bake this cheesecake?
A 9-inch springform pan is ideal for this recipe. It provides the perfect size and shape for even baking and easy removal of the cheesecake once it’s set and chilled.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Cheesecake Recipe is a wonderful way to combine two beloved flavors into one unforgettable dessert. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy day treat, it’s sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy of this creamy, coffee-infused delight with your friends and family!
Print
Coffee Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Coffee Cheesecake Recipe offers a rich and creamy dessert with a chocolate cookie crust infused with robust coffee and espresso flavors. Perfect for coffee lovers, this baked cheesecake features a smooth, velvety texture topped optionally with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an elegant finish.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake this crust for 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool.
- Prepare cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add sour cream, cooled brewed coffee, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract, mixing just until well incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to avoid overbeating.
- Bake cheesecake: Pour the prepared batter evenly over the baked crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool cheesecake: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven slowly for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set completely.
- Prepare optional topping: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper coffee flavor, increase the espresso powder slightly or substitute brewed coffee with espresso.
- To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of hot water on the oven rack beneath the cheesecake during baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
