Chocolate Chip Cheesecake

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the rich taste of chocolate chips. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and beautiful Chocolate Chip Cheesecake.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 4 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Mix Crust Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated.
3. Form Crust:
   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Use a flat-bottomed cup or a spatula to smooth it out.
4. Bake Crust:
   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat Cream Cheese:
   • In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla:
   • Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
3. Add Eggs:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Add Sour Cream and Heavy Cream:
   • Beat in the sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips:
   • Gently fold in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour Filling Over Crust:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Prepare Water Bath:
   • Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the springform pan in a large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Fill the baking sheet with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
3. Bake Cheesecake:
   • Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour.
4. Cool Cheesecake:
   • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and the water bath. Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the sides of the pan. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Sprinkle Chocolate Chips:
   • Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, sprinkle 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips evenly over the top.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from Pan:
   • Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Slice and Serve:
   • Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve chilled.

Tips and Tricks

Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.

Water Bath: A water bath helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake by maintaining an even baking temperature and adding moisture to the oven.

Chilling Time: Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight helps the flavors meld and the texture to set properly.

This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake is a decadent and crowd-pleasing dessert. The creamy cheesecake combined with the crunch of chocolate chips creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any celebration. Follow this recipe to create a dessert that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy every bite!