If you are a coffee lover with a sweet tooth, this Coffee Cheesecake Recipe is guaranteed to become your new favorite dessert. It’s a luscious blend of rich cream cheese, bold espresso flavor, and a chocolate cookie crust that comes together to create a truly irresistible treat. Perfectly creamy and just the right amount of sweet, this cheesecake is an exquisite way to enjoy the flavors of coffee in a decadent dessert form that will wow anyone lucky enough to dig in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Coffee Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simple and carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, taste, and aroma that this dessert is famous for.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Use chocolate sandwich cookies crushed with their filling for a flavorful, moist crust base.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the cookie crumbs and enhances richness without overpowering.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient, softened for an ultra-smooth and creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness to balance the cream cheese and coffee.
- Sour cream: Brings a subtle tanginess and ensures a tender cheesecake texture.
- Instant espresso powder: Provides that bold, authentic coffee flavor that defines this recipe.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Eggs: Key for structure, helping the cheesecake set properly without overbaking.
- Heavy cream (optional): Used for whipping a luscious topping that adds lightness and extra coffee notes.
- Powdered sugar (optional): Sweetens the whipped cream topping without graininess.
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder (optional): Beautiful for garnish, adding visual appeal and extra chocolate flavor.
How to Make Coffee Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepping a 9-inch springform pan. Grease it well and wrap the bottom with foil to prepare for a water bath, which is essential to prevent cracks. Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust and let it rest while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until silky smooth. Add the sour cream, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract, mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Carefully add the eggs one at a time, blending on a low speed just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which could cause cracks in baking. Pour this luscious filling evenly over your baked crust.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan, then pour hot water into the outer pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides—this water bath ensures a gentle, even bake for creamy texture. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, checking for a center that is set but still slightly jiggles. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the door ajar to let the cheesecake cool gradually for one hour, which helps prevent cracks. After that, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight for the best flavor and firmness.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping (Optional)
For a velvet finish, whip together heavy cream, powdered sugar, and espresso powder until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe this fluffy coffee cream on top of your chilled cheesecake, then decorate with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder if you like.
How to Serve Coffee Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
A well-garnished Coffee Cheesecake Recipe is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. The whipped coffee cream topping adds a silky complement, while chocolate shavings or a light cocoa powder dusting enhance the chocolate-coffee harmony and offer a subtle crunch or powdery finish.
Side Dishes
Pair this rich cheesecake with light, refreshing sides such as fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the dessert’s intense flavors. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can also elevate the experience and keep things feeling indulgent yet fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic slice—serve mini versions in individual ramekins for a charming party treat or layer it with espresso-soaked ladyfingers as a no-bake trifle twist. Garnishing with edible gold flakes or coffee beans can add a luxe touch perfect for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Coffee Cheesecake Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. Keeping the springform pan or transferring slices to an airtight container will help maintain freshness and moisture.
Freezing
If you want to keep this cheesecake longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t typically recommended. If you do prefer a slightly warmer slice, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving to soften gently without losing its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso powder?
While brewed coffee can add flavor, instant espresso powder is concentrated and dissolves perfectly into the batter, providing a stronger coffee kick. If using brewed coffee, reduce the liquid in the recipe accordingly and expect a milder taste.
How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake?
The water bath is key to a crack-free cheesecake, as it maintains even heat and moisture during baking. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and cool the cheesecake gradually as directed to keep that smooth surface intact.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This Coffee Cheesecake Recipe is not gluten-free due to the chocolate cookie crust. However, you can substitute with gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs for a safe alternative while preserving the delicious crust texture.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! This cheesecake actually tastes better after the flavors have melded together in the fridge. Make it a day or two in advance to save time and let those coffee and cream cheese flavors develop into perfection.
What’s the best way to slice this cheesecake?
For neat slices, dip your knife into hot water and wipe it dry before cutting. Repeat between each slice for clean edges without sticking or crumbling.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Cheesecake Recipe is a heartfelt tribute to coffee lovers everywhere who also crave a creamy, indulgent dessert. Every bite is a cozy celebration of bold espresso, smooth cream cheese, and rich chocolate that makes any day feel special. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy it brings with your friends and family.
Print
Coffee Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This rich and creamy Coffee Cheesecake combines the bold flavors of espresso with the smoothness of classic cheesecake. Featuring a chocolate cookie crust and an optional whipped coffee topping, it’s a decadent dessert perfect for coffee lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, crushed with filling)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder (or strong instant coffee)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
For the Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom with foil to prevent leaks during the water bath. In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream, instant espresso powder, and vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until combined after each addition to avoid overmixing.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust in the springform pan. Place this pan into a larger roasting pan and carefully pour hot water into the outer pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan, creating a water bath to ensure even baking and prevent cracks. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until the center is just set but still has a slight jiggle.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the oven door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Afterward, remove from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
- Prepare the Topping (Optional): In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and espresso powder until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe this whipped coffee topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder, if desired, before serving.
Notes
- Instant espresso powder provides a bold coffee flavor; adjust the amount to suit your taste preference.
- The water bath prevents cracking and helps achieve a creamy, smooth texture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs to avoid incorporating excess air which can cause cracks.
- Chilling the cheesecake for several hours or overnight enhances the texture and flavor.
