Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

June brings us kids off for summer (usually), Flag Day, and Father’s Day, among warm weather and weekend gatherings.  The “BBQ Masters” do more grilling, particularly on Father’s Day.  One item to add is a cold dessert, which is why we have a chocolate cheesecake recipe to share.  As always, enjoy!!

Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake

Directions (serves 12)

For the crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350*F degrees. Butter a 9-inch springform pan (with 3-inch-high sides) or use a 10-inch springform pan with 2-inch sides.
2. Process the chocolate wafers in a food processor until finely ground.
3. Transfer the crumbs to a small bowl and mix in sugar and melted butter.
4. Press the crumbs evenly onto the bottom (only) of the prepared springform pan.
5. Bake until just set, about 5 minutes.

For the Filling:

1. Melt the 10oz chocolate in the microwave or double boiler until melted and smooth.
2. Cool the chocolate until lukewarm, but ensure it is still warm enough to be pourable.
3. In a large bowl, blend cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth.
4. Blend in eggs, one at a time, and then mix in lukewarm chocolate.
5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust; smooth the top.
6. Bake until the center is just set and appears dry – about 1 hour.
7. Remove the cheesecake and cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.

For the Topping:

1. At least one hour before serving, stir cream, 6oz of chocolate, and sugar in a heavy medium saucepan over low heat until smooth. Cool slightly.
2. Pour over the center of the cheesecake, spreading to within ½ inch of edge, and filling any cracks.
3. Chill until the topping is set, about an hour.
4. Garnish with chocolate curls and/or fresh berries.

Note:  It is preferable to let the cheesecake stand at room temperature 1-2 hours before serving.

Recipe courtesy of: https://www.melskitchencafe.com/wprm_print/54850