1 hour 45 minutes Recipe

If you are ready to indulge in a mesmerising European dessert, this Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake promises pure decadence. Taking a total time of 1 hour 45 minutes to prepare and bake, this cheesecake masterfully combines the rich, velvety texture of cream cheese with the bittersweet allure of dark chocolate and the irresistible crunch of hazelnuts. Each slice is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making it a stunning centerpiece for any special occasion or a luxurious treat to enjoy on a cozy evening.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, creating that elegant balance of silky, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness. The simplicity of the ingredients is deceiving because together they turn into a show-stopping dessert worth every minute spent preparing.

• Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form a sturdy and aromatic base that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
• Melted butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds a rich, buttery flavor to the crust.
• Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake, it provides the smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Sugar: Sweetens the filling just right, balancing the bitterness of the dark chocolate.
• Vanilla: Enhances all flavors with its warm, inviting aroma.
• Eggs: Help set the cheesecake for that perfect sliceable consistency.
• Dark chocolate: Adds richness and depth with its intense cocoa flavor.
• Hazelnut spread: Infuses a nutty sweetness that ties everything together beautifully.
• Roasted hazelnuts: Provide crunch and an extra burst of nutty flavor in the topping.
• Chocolate ganache: A silky, glossy finish that seals all the flavors in with dramatic flair.

How to Make 1 hour 45 minutes

Step 1: Preparing the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and preparing a springform pan by lightly greasing it or lining the bottom with parchment paper for an easy release. Mix together the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until fully combined, then press this mixture firmly into the base of your pan. This will bake for 10 minutes, setting a chocolatey, crunchy foundation that will perfectly support your cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Making the Cheesecake Filling

Next, beat the cream cheese on medium speed until it’s luxuriously smooth and creamy. Slowly add sugar and vanilla extract to meld the flavors. Then, add the eggs one at a time on low speed to ensure a silky batter without over-mixing, which can cause cracks later. Gradually fold in the melted dark chocolate and hazelnut spread until the mixture is beautifully streaked with chocolate and hazelnut swirls.

Step 3: Baking the Cheesecake

Pour the rich filling over your prepared crust, smoothing out the surface carefully with a spatula. Bake the cheesecake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when you gently shake the pan. To cool, leave the oven door slightly ajar and allow the cake to rest inside until it reaches room temperature. For best results, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight to let the flavors fully develop and the texture set firmly.

Step 4: Adding the Finishing Touches

Before serving, drizzle the top of your cheesecake with luscious chocolate ganache and sprinkle generously with roasted hazelnuts. This not only adds a beautiful glossy finish but also an irresistible crunch and an extra layer of hazelnut flavor that makes this dessert truly unforgettable.

How to Serve 1 hour 45 minutes

Garnishes

Sprinkling roasted hazelnuts on top brings a toasty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the smooth filling. Adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache makes each slice look stunning and adds an indulgent melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Side Dishes

To balance the richness, serve slices of this cheesecake alongside fresh berries or a light berry coulis. Whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream makes for a dreamy, creamy complement that brightens the bold flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dramatic European-inspired presentation, slice the cheesecake and decorate each serving with a few whole toasted hazelnuts and delicate chocolate curls. Serve on a rustic wooden board or on vintage-style plates to enhance the decadent, homemade charm that makes this dessert special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making every remaining bite more luscious than the last.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Because this is a rich and delicate dessert, it’s best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, allow slices to sit out for about 20 minutes before serving—skip microwaving as it can change the cheesecake’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! While dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor, milk chocolate can make the cheesecake sweeter and creamier, if that’s your preference.

Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?

Chilling overnight is key for allowing the cheesecake to set properly and develop its full flavor. If you’re short on time, chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.

Can I substitute hazelnut spread with something else?

You can substitute almond butter or peanut butter for a different nutty twist, but it will change the flavor profile noticeably from the original hazelnut charm.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Adding eggs slowly and baking at a moderate temperature helps avoid cracks. Also, cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door slightly open prevents sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust, and be sure your hazelnut spread and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to keep this dessert safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

Final Thoughts

This Dark Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake is a celebration of rich flavors crafted over 1 hour 45 minutes that turns simple ingredients into a luxurious treat. Whether for a festive gathering or just because you deserve something special, I encourage you to try this recipe and let yourself savor every decadent slice. It’s a delight that’s truly worth every moment in the kitchen.