If you love both German chocolate cake and cheesecake, then this German Chocolate Cheesecake is a dream come true. It combines a rich, creamy chocolate cheesecake with a coconut-pecan topping and a decadent ganache swirl, all set on an Oreo cookie crust. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and unforgettable.
Ingredients for German Chocolate Cheesecake
For the Oreo Crust:
- 14.3 oz. Oreo Cookies, finely ground
- 4 oz. unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Cheesecake:
- 2 lb. cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 8 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 eggs, slightly beaten with a fork
For the Coconut Pecan Topping:
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 4 oz. sweetened shredded coconut
- ¾ cup chopped toasted pecans
For the Ganache for Swirls:
- 4 oz. chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- ⅔ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions: How to Make German Chocolate Cheesecake
Step 1: Make the Oreo Crust
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the ground Oreo cookies and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, making sure to pack it tightly.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cheesecake
- Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave or over a double boiler, melt the 8 oz. semi-sweet chocolate. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix the Cream Cheese and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth and creamy, using an electric mixer at medium speed.
- Add the Chocolate and Vanilla
- Add the cooled, melted chocolate and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until well combined.
- Add the Eggs
- Gradually add the beaten eggs into the mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the Oreo crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is almost set (it should still have a slight jiggle).
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Afterward, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the cheesecake to fully set.
Step 3: Make the Coconut Pecan Topping
- Prepare the Topping
- In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, evaporated milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and light brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10-12 minutes).
- Add the Coconut and Pecans
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the sweetened shredded coconut and chopped toasted pecans. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 4: Make the Ganache for Swirls
- Heat the Cream
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (but not boil).
- Melt the Chocolate
- Place the chopped chocolate, coconut oil, and cocoa powder in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute, then whisk until smooth. Stir in the maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Swirl the Ganache
- Once the cheesecake is topped with the coconut-pecan mixture, drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top. Use a knife or skewer to create beautiful swirls of chocolate on top of the cheesecake.
Step 5: Serve
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for another 30 minutes to allow the ganache to set. Slice and serve this decadent German Chocolate Cheesecake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth, creamy cheesecake batter.
- Preventing Cracks: Allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door cracked open helps prevent cracks on the surface. If cracks do form, don’t worry— the toppings will cover them!
- Toasting Pecans: For the best flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring often until fragrant.
Recipe Variations: How to Customize Your German Chocolate Cheesecake
Gluten-Free Cheesecake
- Use gluten-free Oreos for the crust to make this cheesecake gluten-free without compromising on flavor.
Vegan German Chocolate Cheesecake
- Use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan chocolate, and plant-based milk to make a vegan version of this indulgent dessert. Be sure to replace the eggs with a suitable egg substitute, like a flax egg or a store-bought egg replacer.
Dark Chocolate Variation
- For an extra rich flavor, replace the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher). It will add a more intense chocolate flavor to the cheesecake.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About German Chocolate Cheesecake
Q1: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake actually tastes better the day after it’s made, as the flavors meld together. You can prepare the entire cheesecake up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Q2: Can I freeze German Chocolate Cheesecake?
Yes, this cheesecake freezes beautifully. After it’s fully set and topped, you can freeze it whole or in slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q3: Can I use a different kind of chocolate?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate like milk chocolate for a sweeter version or dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
Q4: What can I serve with German Chocolate Cheesecake?
This cheesecake is rich and decadent on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries to balance out the richness.
The Ultimate Chocolate Lover’s Dessert
This German Chocolate Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts. With a rich chocolate cheesecake base, a buttery Oreo crust, a sweet coconut-pecan topping, and swirls of silky ganache, this dessert is sure to impress. Whether for a special celebration or simply a treat-yourself moment, this cheesecake is a must-try for chocolate lovers and fans of indulgent, layered flavors!
