If you’re in search of a dessert that’s both decadent and reminiscent of cozy winter nights, look no further than this Best Hot Chocolate Cheesecake. This recipe blends the rich flavors of creamy cheesecake with the nostalgic taste of hot chocolate, making it an instant showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake brings comfort and warmth to the table. It’s a delightful combination of tart and sweet, smooth and crunchy—definitely a memorable dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Imagine the joy of indulging in a luscious cheesecake that captures the essence of your favorite winter drink. This recipe serves up the ultimate dessert experience, offering a perfect fusion of rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture. It’s a fantastic choice for gatherings or casual family meals, delivering a sense of nostalgia that everyone cherishes. Plus, it’s relatively simple to make, which means you can spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.

“Every bite of this Hot Chocolate Cheesecake transports me back to cozy evenings by the fire! It’s my go-to recipe for holiday gatherings!” – Satisfied Baker

Preparing the Best Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

Creating this cheesecake is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. First, you’ll craft a buttery Oreo crust that sets the stage for the creamy filling. Then, using a simple mixing method, you’ll combine cream cheese with hot cocoa mix, sugar, and other delightful ingredients. This combination results in a rich, chocolatey cheesecake that’s baked to perfection. The entire process takes less than two hours, but the refrigeration time ensures you end up with a perfectly set cheesecake that you can plan ahead for.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create the Best Hot Chocolate Cheesecake:

1 1/2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 cup hot cocoa mix
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream (for topping)
Marshmallows (for topping)

Note: If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream or using light cream cheese.

Directions to Follow

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a bowl, combine Oreo cookie crumbs with melted butter. Mix until fully combined, then press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create the crust.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until it’s smooth.
Add the sour cream, eggs, hot cocoa mix, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Blend until all ingredients are smoothly incorporated.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared Oreo crust in the springform pan.
Bake the cheesecake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set.
Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Before serving, top with a generous amount of whipped cream and scatter marshmallows on top for extra flair.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Present your Best Hot Chocolate Cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of mini marshmallows for that authentic hot chocolate vibe! Consider pairing it with a side of fresh berries to cut through the richness or serve it alongside a warm cup of actual hot cocoa for a delightful dessert experience. Slice it into generous portions and watch as your guests admire the beautiful layers.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store your cheesecake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to freeze it, ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn; it can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Don’t skip the refrigeration step—allowing the cheesecake to chill properly helps it set and enhances its flavor.
For a more intense chocolate flavor, add chocolate chips to the filling or toppings.

Creative Twists

Want to add some flair? Consider these variations:

Swirl: Add a couple of spoonfuls of chocolate or peanut butter fudge sauce to the filling before baking for a stunning marbled effect.
Flavors: Substitute different flavored hot cocoa mixes—think peppermint or caramel—for a seasonal twist.
Crust Options: Experiment with graham cracker crumbs or gluten-free cookies instead of Oreo for the crust.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this cheesecake? The prep time is about 30 minutes, but don’t forget to allow 4 hours for chilling.
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust? Absolutely! Any chocolate-flavored cookie, such as chocolate wafer cookies, will work beautifully.
How can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions? You can use dairy-free cream cheese or yogurt for a dairy-free version and adjust the sugar accordingly for a lower sugar option.

Enjoy baking this delightful Best Hot Chocolate Cheesecake, and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends!

Best Hot Chocolate Cheesecake

This decadent cheesecake blends creamy flavors with the nostalgic taste of hot chocolate, perfect for winter gatherings or any special occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 1

Total Time 4 30

Course Dessert, Sweet

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients

For the Crust

1.5 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

2 packages cream cheese, softened (8 oz each)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream Can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
2 large eggs
1 cup hot cocoa mix
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping

Whipped cream For topping
Marshmallows For topping

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a bowl, combine Oreo cookie crumbs with melted butter. Mix until fully combined, then press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create the crust.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until it’s smooth.
Add the sour cream, eggs, hot cocoa mix, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Blend until all ingredients are smoothly incorporated.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared Oreo crust in the springform pan.

Baking and Chilling

Bake the cheesecake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set.
Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.