Espresso Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache and Coffee Bean Garnish Recipe
This Espresso Cheesecake combines rich coffee flavor with a creamy, smooth texture on a crunchy Oreo crust. Enhanced with a luscious chocolate ganache topping and finished with whole espresso beans, it’s a decadent dessert perfect for coffee lovers seeking an elegant treat.
- Author: Lila
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Crust
- 2 cups Oreo crumbs (about 24 Oreos, filling removed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup brewed espresso (strong coffee)
- 3 large eggs
Chocolate Ganache
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Garnish
- Whole espresso beans for topping (optional)
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by sealing them in a bag and smashing with a rolling pin.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the Oreo crumbs with melted unsalted butter and mix until evenly moistened.
- Form Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and lump-free. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until well combined.
- Add Espresso: Gradually mix in the brewed espresso until fully incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, gently mixing after each addition to avoid incorporating air, which helps prevent cracking during baking.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Prepare Water Bath and Bake: Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the outer dish with hot water to create a water bath, ensuring even temperature. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 65–85 minutes, until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool Slowly: Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool slowly inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking from sudden temperature changes.
- Make Ganache: In a heatproof bowl, pour hot heavy cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until the ganache is smooth and fully melted.
- Apply Ganache: Let the ganache cool for about 5–7 minutes, then pour it evenly over the cooled cheesecake, spreading gently with a spatula.
- Chill Cheesecake: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
- Serve: Once set, carefully remove the springform pan. Garnish the top with whole espresso beans if desired, and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using a water bath is key to preventing cracks and ensuring an even bake.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in a slightly open oven prevents thermal shock and surface cracks.
- Room temperature cream cheese ensures a smoother filling without lumps.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, you can increase the brewed espresso slightly, but avoid excess liquid which may affect texture.
- Ganache can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; rewarm gently before topping the cheesecake.
- To remove Oreo filling easily, twist cookies apart before crushing.
Keywords: espresso cheesecake, Oreo crust, coffee dessert, chocolate ganache, creamy cheesecake, coffee dessert recipe