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This rich chocolate cheesecake blends a creamy filling with fresh raspberries and a crisp chocolate crust creating a dessert that balances indulgence with bright fruit notes perfectly.
I first made this cheesecake for a special occasion and it quickly became a favorite dessert requested by my family for celebrations and cozy weekends alike
Ingredients
- Crushed chocolate cookies: provide the base with a chocolatey crunch choose good quality cookies for best texture
- Unsalted butter: binds the crust smoothly use real butter not margarine for flavor
- Cream cheese: is the star of the filling use full fat and softened for the creamiest results
- Granulated sugar: balances the richness with subtle sweetness
- Melted dark chocolate: adds intense cocoa notes pick at least 70 percent cacao for depth
- Vanilla extract: brightens the filling bringing all flavors together choose pure vanilla extract for best aroma
- Large eggs: create structure and richness use room temperature eggs for smooth batter
- Fresh raspberries: add bursts of tartness gently fold them to keep berries whole and flavorful
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 160 degrees Celsius then combine crushed chocolate cookies and melted butter press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 23 centimeter springform pan to form a solid base that will crisp as it bakes
- Blend Filling:
- Using a stand mixer or electric beaters blend softened cream cheese with sugar melted dark chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy ensuring no lumps remain for a perfect texture
- Incorporate Eggs:
- Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition this gradual mixing helps create a smooth homogeneous filling without overbeating which could cause cracking
- Add Raspberries:
- Gently fold fresh raspberries into the filling taking care not to break the berries then pour the filling evenly over the prepared crust to maintain a beautiful layered effect
- Bake and Chill:
- Bake at 160 degrees Celsius for about 60 minutes until the center is just set and slightly wobbly when you gently shake the pan remove from oven cool completely in the pan then refrigerate several hours or overnight to develop the best flavor and texture before slicing
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I love how the fresh raspberries brighten each bite creating a balance to the decadent chocolate filling it reminds me of holiday dinners when dessert is the highlight everyone looks forward to
Storage Tips
Store covered in the refrigerator to keep it moist and fresh for up to three days leftover cheesecake slices freeze well wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
For a nutty crust try crushed almond cookies or gluten free chocolate cookies if avoiding gluten Swap fresh raspberries for frozen but thaw and drain well to avoid excess moisture Use vanilla bean paste or scraped seeds instead of extract for a more intense vanilla flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry coulis for extra flair Pair with a cup of black coffee or a glass of red wine to complement the rich chocolate and tart fruit flavors
Cultural Context
Cheesecake has roots in ancient Greece evolving through centuries to become a beloved dessert worldwide dark chocolate and raspberry is a modern twist celebrating rich flavors and fresh ingredients in harmony
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Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface?
Ensure eggs are fully incorporated and bake at a consistent low temperature (160°C). Avoid overmixing and allow cheesecake to cool gradually in the pan.
- → Can I substitute fresh raspberries with frozen ones?
Frozen raspberries may release excess moisture and affect texture. If used, thaw and drain them thoroughly before folding into the batter.
- → What is the best way to crush chocolate cookies for the crust?
Use a food processor for even fine crumbs or place cookies in a sealed bag and crush gently with a rolling pin.
- → How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?
Refrigerate for several hours or preferably overnight to let flavors meld and the texture firm up for clean slicing.
- → What type of chocolate works best melted into the filling?
Use high-quality dark chocolate for a rich flavor that balances well with the creamy filling and fresh raspberries.