Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

Indulging in a slice of rich and creamy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake is like taking a bite of heaven. This delightful dessert combines the classic flavors of cheesecake with the irresistible charm of chocolate chips, making it a favorite for gatherings, celebrations, or even a cozy night in. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating a show-stopping cheesecake that will impress anyone who takes a bite.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake has it all: a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy filling loaded with chocolate chips, and a rich chocolate ganache topping. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it a standout dessert. You will love how easy it is to make, plus the fact that it can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment. Each slice offers a decadent experience that will leave you craving more!

What You’ll Gather

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 32 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups mini semisweet chocolate chips
• 3 ounces mini semisweet chocolate chips (for garnish)
• ½ cup heavy cream (for ganache)
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
• Additional mini semisweet chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)

What’s in the Gear List

• 9-inch springform pan: Perfect for baking and serving your cheesecake.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for best results.
• Cooling rack: Needed for cooling the cheesecake after baking.

Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of flour, continuing to mix until fully incorporated. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of mini semisweet chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter. This will give your cheesecake those delightful pockets of chocolatey goodness.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and crack the door slightly, letting the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache

In a small saucepan, heat ½ cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the remaining 3 ounces of mini semisweet chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. Before serving, pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Top with additional mini semisweet chocolate chips and whipped cream, if desired.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

• If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour.
• For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate chips.
• To reduce sugar, you can use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar or reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.
• For a different flavor profile, consider adding orange or lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a citrus twist.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter after adding the eggs; this can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.
• Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth texture, as cold cream cheese can lead to lumps.
• Avoid opening the oven door while the cheesecake is baking to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven to prevent sudden temperature changes that can lead to cracking.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake is perfect for freezing! Once cooled and set, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. You can add the ganache and toppings just before serving for the best presentation.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Q&A

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can swap in dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that this may alter the overall sweetness of the cheesecake.

How can I tell when the cheesecake is done?

The cheesecake is done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Chocolate Chip Cheesecake?

This cheesecake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed making this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Post your creations on social media and tag your favorite food bloggers. Your feedback and photos inspire others to bake this delicious dessert.

There’s something undeniably special about a homemade Chocolate Chip Cheesecake. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and delightful chocolate chips, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and prepare to indulge in a slice (or two!) of this heavenly treat. Whether for a special occasion or just because, this cheesecake is bound to bring smiles and satisfaction all around. Happy baking!