Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups dark chocolate chips
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 tablespoon raspberry liqueur (optional, but adds a lovely depth)
For substitutions, you can use chocolate wafer crumbs instead of graham crackers for a deeper chocolate flavor. If you want a bit of a kick, try adding a hint of cayenne pepper to the crust for a surprising twist.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with foil to prevent water from seeping in.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and melted butter. Mix until well combined and press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Fold in the melted chocolate until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Gently fold in sour cream and raspberry liqueur, if using.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Place the pan inside a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, top with fresh raspberries and a dusting of cocoa powder. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International