Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence. The chocolate cookie crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the creamy coffee-infused filling delivers deep flavor with a smooth texture. Topped with silky caramel and chocolate, every bite is a delicious balance of sweetness and bitterness. It’s an impressive dessert for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something truly special.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreo, without filling)
¼ cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled

For the Toppings:

½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup chocolate ganache (or melted chocolate chips with a splash of cream)
Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
Chocolate shavings or espresso beans, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
Make the Crust: Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until fully combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar and Eggs: Add the sugar and mix until well incorporated. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition.
Add Sour Cream and Coffee: Stir in the sour cream, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add the Melted Chocolate: Gently fold in the melted chocolate until evenly mixed.
Pour into Pan: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Add Toppings:

Add Caramel and Chocolate: Once chilled, drizzle the caramel sauce and chocolate ganache over the top of the cheesecake.
Garnish: Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or espresso beans if desired.

Serve:

Slice and Serve: Use a warm knife for clean slices. Serve chilled and enjoy every decadent bite!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Chill Time: 4+ hours
Total Time: About 6 hours (including chilling)

Variations

Salted Caramel: Use salted caramel for a sweet and salty twist.
Mocha Swirl: Swirl additional melted chocolate into the filling for a beautiful marbled effect.
No-Bake Option: Use a no-bake crust and replace the filling with a whipped cream cheese and gelatin mix for a no-bake version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze whole or in slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: No reheating needed—this cheesecake is best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?

Yes, dissolve 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in ½ cup hot water as a substitute.

Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Absolutely! It’s even better the next day after the flavors have developed in the fridge.

Do I need a water bath?

A water bath helps prevent cracking, but you can also bake without it and use a pan of hot water on a lower rack.

What’s the best chocolate for the filling?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips or baking chocolate work well. Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor.

Conclusion

Caramel Chocolate Coffee Cheesecake is a showstopping dessert that combines creamy texture with rich, bold flavors. From the chocolate cookie crust to the luscious mocha filling and caramel-chocolate topping, it’s a cheesecake lover’s dream come true. Perfect for celebrations or any time you want a decadent treat, this dessert is bound to impress!