Decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake

Decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted

• For the Topping:
• ½ cup fresh raspberries (for garnish)
• ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy (2–3 minutes).
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
3. Mix in vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Gently fold in the raspberries.
5. Pour half of the batter over the crust. Drizzle half of the melted chocolate and swirl with a knife.
6. Add the remaining batter and smooth the top.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55–65 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
3. Remove and let it cool completely at room temperature.

4. Chill and Add Toppings:

1. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Carefully remove from the pan and transfer to a serving platter.
3. Top with raspberries, drizzle with melted chocolate, and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

5. Serve:

1. Slice using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts.
2. Serve with extra raspberries and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

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Time & Prep Details:
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 55–65 minutes
• Cooling + Chill Time: 5+ hours
• Total Time: Approx. 6.5 hours
• Serves: 10–12

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Variations:
• Berry Swap: Replace raspberries with blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a twist.
• Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for an extra chocolatey base.
• White Chocolate Version: Substitute white chocolate for semi-sweet chips for a creamier, sweeter swirl.
• Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds to the crust or the topping for texture.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin with liners for individual servings—adjust bake time to 20–25 minutes.

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Conclusion:
This decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake is a true showstopper—perfectly balancing tangy berries, rich chocolate, and silky smooth cream cheese. Whether for a holiday, a birthday, or a cozy dinner party, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy every sweet craving. Its elegant look and luxurious taste make it a must-bake dessert.