Imagine the cozy charm of a mug of hot cocoa baked right into a creamy, decadent dessert — that’s exactly what you’ll get with this Hot Chocolate Cheesecake. This irresistible treat brings together the dreamy richness of chocolate, the silky smoothness of classic cheesecake, and just a touch of nostalgia from your favorite hot chocolate. Whether you’re making it for a special winter gathering or just want to spoil yourself silly, this cheesecake will sweep you off your feet with its lush texture and crowd-pleasing chocolatey flavor. Trust me, you’ll want a second slice!

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this cheesecake is in its approachable ingredients — each one steps up to add depth, creaminess, or that unmistakeable fudgy taste. Gather these goodies for your Hot Chocolate Cheesecake and let every bite sing!

Chocolate cookie crumbs: These pack the crust with chocolate flavor and a touch of crunch; be sure to use Oreos or your favorite chocolate cookies, but leave out the filling for the best texture.
Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust together and delivers that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth foundation for your cheesecake.
Cream cheese (softened): The heart of any cheesecake; softening it first leads to that signature creamy-smooth filling.
Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to highlight the chocolate without overwhelming it.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Deepens that chocolate flavor, giving it an almost brownie-like richness.
Hot chocolate mix: The magic behind the “hot chocolate” profile, customizing your cheesecake with whichever blend you adore most.
Large eggs: Help the filling set perfectly, creating a velvety texture that still holds its shape.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and rounds out the chocolate flavor beautifully.
Sour cream: Adds a little tang, balancing the sweetness and making for a sumptuously smooth finish.
Heavy cream: Lightens up the filling, ensuring every forkful is luscious and airy. You’ll also need extra for the ganache topping.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into a dreamy ganache that’s perfect for draping over the finished cheesecake.
Mini marshmallows or whipped cream: For the finishing touch, these garnishes echo the spirit of hot chocolate and add a playful flourish to your masterpiece.

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. In a medium bowl, blend those chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this delicious mix firmly into the bottom (and just a little up the sides) of your pan to create a sturdy crust. Pop it in the oven for 10 minutes to set, then let it cool while you get the filling ready.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and silky. Sprinkle in the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, and that magical hot chocolate mix. Beat until everything’s beautifully combined, taking a moment to scrape down the sides as needed. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing just until each is incorporated — don’t overmix! Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream to finish off your luscious filling.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the creamy filling over the cooled crust, and use a spatula to gently smooth the top. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for about 55 to 65 minutes. The edges should look firm, while the center will be slightly wobbly — that’s perfect. When the timer dings, turn off the oven and crack the door open just a bit, letting your cheesecake cool gradually inside for 1 hour to help prevent cracks.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

After its hour-long rest in the oven, let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Next comes the tough part: transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can resist. This step sets the filling and delivers that unmistakably creamy texture that makes Hot Chocolate Cheesecake so dreamy.

Step 5: Make the Ganache Topping (Optional)

If you’re in the mood for extra decadence, warm 1/2 cup of heavy cream until it’s just steaming. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let sit for two minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy, then spread this chocolatey goodness over your chilled cheesecake. Top it off with mini marshmallows or a swirl of whipped cream for that iconic hot chocolate finish!

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Garnishes

This dessert practically begs for a little pizzazz on top. I love to scatter mini marshmallows over the ganache just before serving, or pile on clouds of whipped cream and maybe a dusting of extra cocoa powder. Not only does this look festive, but it also makes every forkful taste even more like a decadent mug of hot cocoa!

Side Dishes

Pairing this cheesecake is all about keeping it cozy. Serve slices with a mug of real hot chocolate (for the true chocolate lover), a fresh pot of coffee, or even chilled milk. Since the Hot Chocolate Cheesecake is indulgent, fresh fruit like raspberries or sliced strawberries make a refreshing and colorful side.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving for a special occasion, try cutting the cheesecake into small bars or mini rounds instead of standard wedges. A drizzle of chocolate sauce in artistic swirls, edible glitter, or even a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies looks stunning and festive. Arrange the finished slices on a decorative platter, and prepare for the “oohs” and “aahs”!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to five days — which means you can sneak a slice for a sweet treat anytime you crave it!

Freezing

This Hot Chocolate Cheesecake freezes surprisingly well. For best results, wrap individual slices (or the whole cheesecake) in several layers of plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and add your garnishes after defrosting for the freshest presentation.

Reheating

Cheesecake is at its best served chilled, but if you like it closer to room temperature, let a slice sit on the counter for 20-30 minutes before indulging. Avoid microwaving, as this can melt the topping and mess with the texture.

FAQs

Can I make Hot Chocolate Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this cheesecake benefits from a long chill in the fridge, so making it a day ahead is perfect. Just garnish right before serving for the freshest look and taste.

What’s the best way to get clean cheesecake slices?

Dip a sharp knife into hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. This keeps your slices tidy and picture-perfect, especially important with that ganache topping!

Can I use a different type Dessert

Totally! Any favorite hot chocolate blend works here, from dark chocolate for a more intense flavor to flavored varieties like peppermint or salted caramel for a creative twist.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust, and be certain your hot chocolate mix is also gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this adaptation super easy.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a deep 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper, but be aware that removing the cheesecake may be trickier. Take extra care when lifting it out after chilling, and use a sturdy spatula for support.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a showstopper dessert that tastes just as magical as it looks, this Hot Chocolate Cheesecake truly delivers. Every bite is pure comfort and chocolatey joy. Don’t be afraid to make it your own with fun garnishes or creative mix-ins — just promise you’ll give this recipe a try and share it with someone who deserves a delicious treat!

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Hot Chocolate Cheesecake. This decadent dessert combines the flavors of hot chocolate and cheesecake into a heavenly treat that is perfect for the winter holidays.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, without filling)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup hot chocolate mix (regular or dark chocolate)
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream

Topping (optional):

1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
mini marshmallows or whipped cream for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
Prepare the crust: Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, cocoa powder, hot chocolate mix, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
Bake: Pour filling over crust and bake for 55–65 minutes. Cool in the oven, then refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Optional topping: Heat heavy cream, pour over chocolate chips, and spread over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with mini marshmallows or whipped cream.