Irish Cream Cheesecake (Print Version)
A creamy cheesecake featuring chocolate cookie crust and flavors of coffee, cocoa, and vanilla.
# What You'll Need:
→ Crust
01 - 7 oz chocolate cookie crumbs
02 - 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 tbsp granulated sugar
04 - Pinch of salt
→ Filling
05 - 24 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - 3 large eggs, room temperature
08 - 3/4 cup sour cream
09 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
10 - 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
11 - 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
12 - 2 tsp instant coffee granules
13 - 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
14 - 1/2 tsp almond extract
15 - Pinch of salt
→ Topping
16 - 1 cup cold heavy cream
17 - 2 tbsp powdered sugar
18 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
19 - Shaved chocolate or cocoa powder for garnish
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
03 - In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
04 - Add sour cream, heavy cream, brewed coffee, cocoa powder, instant coffee, vanilla, and almond extract. Add a pinch of salt. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
05 - Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
06 - Place the pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the outer pan with hot water halfway up the sides.
07 - Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is just set and slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
08 - Remove cheesecake and cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
09 - Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to soft peaks.
10 - Spread or pipe whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with shaved chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The coffee and cocoa create depth without needing any alcohol
- The water bath technique guarantees that silky crack-free texture
02 -
- Room temperature ingredients prevent lumps and ensure smooth incorporation
- The water bath regulates oven temperature and prevents cracking
03 -
- Tap your filled pan firmly on the counter to release trapped air bubbles
- Crack the oven door after baking to prevent sudden temperature changes