Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let’s talk about one of my all-time favorite desserts: Caramel Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake. When I was a kid, my grandma used to make this for special occasions, and it quickly became the star of every celebration. I can still picture her whisking away in the kitchen, the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and freshly brewed coffee weaving through our home. Each bite is a heavenly combination of creamy cheese, rich chocolate, and the deep warmth of coffee — it’s pure bliss!
What makes this cheesecake stand out, aside from the divine flavors, is the harmonious mix of textures. The buttery crust contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling, and don’t even get me started on the luscious caramel drizzle on top! Whether it’s for a birthday, a dinner party, or just a cozy night in, this cheesecake is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this decadent recipe!
What’s in Caramel Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake?
Cream Cheese: The creamy base of the cheesecake, providing that velvety texture we all crave. I usually prefer to use full-fat cream cheese for that rich flavor, but low-fat works too if you need a lighter option.
Sugar: Essential for that sweet indulgence! I like to use granulated sugar, but brown sugar can add an interesting depth to the flavor as well.
Chocolate: We’re talking about both melted chocolate for the filling and cocoa powder for a chocolatey punch. I typically use semi-sweet chocolate, but dark chocolate lovers can go for the higher cocoa percentage.
Strong Coffee: The secret ingredient that elevates this cheesecake into the ultimate dessert experience. Brew your favorite coffee, or opt for espresso if you want a more intense flavor.
Caramel Sauce: This ooey-gooey drizzle is what dreams are made of! You can either make your own or use a store-bought version for convenience. Just ensure it’s high-quality for that gourmet experience.
Graham Crackers: The base of our crust. I typically use king-sized graham crackers; they provide a sturdy foundation for all that creamy goodness.
Butter: Helps to hold the crust together and adds richness. Unsalted butter works best for controlling the sweetness of the dessert.
Is Caramel Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake Good for You?
While this cheesecake is certainly a decadent treat, let’s chat about the health aspect a little.
Cream Cheese is a source of calcium and protein, making it a more indulgent way to satisfy your cravings. However, be mindful of the fat content.
Chocolate can come with some health benefits, especially dark chocolate, which is known to be rich in antioxidants. Plus, it can give you a bit of that energy you need, thanks to its caffeine content.
Coffee is another powerhouse! It can improve focus and even has some health benefits when consumed in moderation.
But be cautious with portions; this cheesecake is rich and filling. A small slice can be quite satisfying, so don’t go overboard if you want to keep it a special treat!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups (about 16-18) graham crackers, crushed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate, melted
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
*Serves: 10-12*
How to Make Caramel Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter. Mix until well blended and press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then allow it to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the sugar, mixing until light and fluffy.
4. Pour in the melted chocolate and stir until combined. Then add the cocoa powder, cooled coffee, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix until the batter is smooth.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly (it will firm up as it cools). Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool inside for an hour to prevent cracks.
7. After cooling, drizzle caramel sauce on top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. When ready to serve, slice, drizzle with additional caramel sauce, and enjoy!
Sweet Suggestions for Success
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of that caramel drizzle; it’s a flavor bomb!
– For a festive twist, you can add a splash of your favorite liqueur into the batter for an adult touch.
– Serve this cheesecake alongside a cup of espresso for the ultimate coffee lover’s pairing.
I can’t wait for you to try this Caramel Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake! It’s such a delightful and indulgent treat, perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself… I won’t tell!). If you make it, please drop a comment to let me know how it turned out, or snap a pic and tag me! Cheering you on for baking success, my friend! Enjoy every sweet bite!
