Contents
Introduction
Indulge your sweet tooth with this delightful Layered Chocolate Cheesecake featuring a crunchy Oreo crust. This no-bake dessert is a dream come true for chocolate lovers, combining smooth layers of chocolate cheesecake and vanilla cream cheese. Topped with a rich chocolate ganache, it’s the perfect showstopper for any occasion, guaranteed to impress family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Oreo Crust:
– 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 4 8 oz. packages cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
For the Chocolate Topping:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 6 oz. bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oreo Crust:
Blend the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are moistened and resemble wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, lightly greased on the sides. Freeze the crust while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
Melt the bittersweet chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler. Allow it to cool. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the 2 cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add the vanilla extract and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the whipped cream on low speed until combined. Divide the cheesecake mixture into two equal portions. Mix the cooled, melted chocolate into one half of the cheesecake mixture. Layer the chocolate cheesecake mixture over the Oreo crust, spreading it evenly. Carefully layer the plain cheesecake mixture over the chocolate layer. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least an hour to set.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
In a medium saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream, chocolate, and sugar over low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Let the topping cool slightly, then pour it over the set cheesecake. Once the topping is firm, run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it, then remove the sides of the springform pan.
Serving & Storing
Allow the cheesecake to chill for another 2-3 hours or overnight before serving for best results. Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy your creamy, chocolate-filled Layered Chocolate Cheesecake with Oreo Crust!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Oreo Crust:
Blend the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are moistened and resemble wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, lightly greased on the sides. Freeze the crust while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
Melt the bittersweet chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler. Allow it to cool. In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the 2 cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form, then add the vanilla extract and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the whipped cream on low speed until combined. Divide the cheesecake mixture into two equal portions. Mix the cooled, melted chocolate into one half of the cheesecake mixture. Layer the chocolate cheesecake mixture over the Oreo crust, spreading it evenly. Carefully layer the plain cheesecake mixture over the chocolate layer. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least an hour to set.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
In a medium saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream, chocolate, and sugar over low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Let the topping cool slightly, then pour it over the set cheesecake. Once the topping is firm, run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it, then remove the sides of the springform pan.
Serving & Storing
Chill Before Serving:
Allow the cheesecake to chill for another 2-3 hours or overnight before serving for best results.
Storage:
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy:
Enjoy your creamy, chocolate-filled Layered Chocolate Cheesecake with Oreo Crust!
Cook techniques
Making Oreo Crust
To prepare an Oreo crust, blend Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. Mix with melted unsalted butter until the crumbs are moistened and resemble wet sand. Press into a springform pan and freeze to set.
Whipping Cream
When whipping heavy cream, start on a medium speed until soft peaks form. Then add any flavorings, like vanilla extract, and continue to whip on a higher speed until stiff peaks form.
Melting Chocolate
Melt bittersweet chocolate using a microwave or double boiler method, ensuring to stir frequently to prevent burning. Let it cool slightly before incorporating it into other mixtures.
Folding Technique
To combine mixtures gently, such as cream cheese and whipped cream, use a spatula and fold from the bottom up. This preserves the airiness of the whipped cream for a light texture.
Layering Cheesecake
When layering cheesecake mixtures, start with the heavier chocolate layer on the crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly before carefully layering the vanilla cheesecake mixture on top.
Making Chocolate Topping
For a smooth chocolate topping, gently heat heavy cream, chopped chocolate, and sugar until melted and combined. Stir frequently to achieve a silky texture before pouring over the cheesecake.
FAQ
Yes, you can use other cookies like graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies, but the flavor will vary.
How long does the cheesecake need to set in the refrigerator?
It’s best to chill the cheesecake for at least 2-3 hours or overnight for optimal firmness and flavor.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to protect it. It can be stored for up to a month.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use whipped coconut cream or full-fat Greek yogurt as alternatives, but the texture and flavor may differ from traditional heavy cream.
How do I know when the cheesecake is fully set?
The cheesecake should be firm to the touch and not jiggle when gently shaken. If it feels soft, allow it to chill for a bit longer.
Conclusion
This Layered Chocolate Cheesecake with Oreo Crust is a magnificent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with a delightful crunch from the Oreo crust. Its smooth, creamy texture combined with the decadent chocolate layers makes it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether served at a party or as a special family dessert, this cheesecake is sure to impress and satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Oreo Cheesecake Brownies
Combine the flavors of brownies and cheesecake by layering a rich brownie base with a creamy Oreo cheesecake filling. Top with crushed Oreos for added texture.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake
Add a layer of creamy peanut butter mixed into the cheesecake filling to create a delightful peanut butter chocolate cheesecake. Garnish with chocolate shavings and peanut butter drizzle.
Berry Swirl Cheesecake
Incorporate a fruit twist by folding in a berry puree (such as raspberry or strawberry) into one layer of the cheesecake filling before layering, adding a fresh and tangy flavor contrast.
Mint Chocolate Cheesecake
Infuse mint flavor by adding peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling. Top with crushed chocolate mint candies and drizzle chocolate sauce for a festive touch.
Caramel Chocolate Delight
Introduce layers of caramel sauce into the cheesecake filling for a rich and indulgent taste. Drizzle additional caramel over the chocolate topping for extra sweetness.
