Buckle up, folks, because we’re about to take your taste buds on a wild ride with this Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake! This insanely decadent dessert is the ultimate fusion of creamy, chocolatey goodness and a nutty, crunchy crust that will have you begging for more. Get ready to smash some delicious rules and turn your kitchen into a flavor paradise!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake
This epic cheesecake is an absolute game-changer in the dessert world. The rich, velvety chocolate filling is infused with the incredible flavor of toasted hazelnuts, creating a truly mouth-watering and irresistible combination. The crunchy hazelnut crust provides the perfect textural contrast, making every bite an explosive sensory experience. Trust me, this cheesecake is about to become your new obsession!
Ingredients
To make this Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake, you’ll need a few key ingredients that will take your taste buds on the ultimate flavor adventure. Get ready to indulge in a decadent blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and of course, the star of the show – toasted hazelnuts.
- 24 ounces – Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup – Granulated sugar
- 1 cup – Heavy cream
- 1/2 cup – Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup – Toasted, chopped hazelnuts
Ingredient Substitutions
- Hazelnuts: Almonds or pecans (add a unique twist to the classic flavor)
- Chocolate: Dark, milk, or a combination (experiment with different chocolate notes)
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake
Let’s dive in and create this legendary cheesecake together!
Step 1: Prep Work
First, let’s get our kitchen ready to bake this insane cheesecake. Start by toasting the hazelnuts to bring out their incredible aroma and flavor. Then, prepare the crust by combining the toasted nuts with graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this delicious mixture into your springform pan and let it chill while you work on the filling.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Now, it’s time to create the explosive chocolate-hazelnut filling. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add in the sugar, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt, and mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Fold in the chopped toasted hazelnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Carefully pour the chocolate-hazelnut filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Now, it’s time to bake this masterpiece! Place the cheesecake in a preheated oven and let it work its magic until the center is just set. Once it’s done, let it cool completely before removing the springform ring.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
For the final touch, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the cheesecake, creating a stunning visual and adding an extra layer of indulgence. Sprinkle with a few more chopped hazelnuts, and you’ve got a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to leave your guests in awe.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Nutella Swirl: If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try swirling in some Nutella or hazelnut spread into the filling for an even more intense hazelnut flavor.
- Toppings Galore: Experiment with different toppings, such as a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped toasted hazelnuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The possibilities are endless!
- Gluten-Free Crust: To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply swap out the graham cracker crumbs in the crust for crushed gluten-free cookies or a nut-based crust.
- Extra Chocolate Boost: If you’re a true chocoholic, you can try adding a few ounces of melted dark chocolate to the filling for an even richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Storage: This Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer-term storage, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheat: To serve, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator before slicing and enjoying.
Make-Ahead: This cheesecake is the perfect make-ahead dessert. Simply prepare the cheesecake, chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or up to 5 days), and then add the final chocolate drizzle and chopped hazelnuts just before serving.
Nutrition Information
Indulging in this Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake is a true treat for the senses, but let’s not forget about the nutritional information. Each slice of this decadent dessert packs a rich and creamy punch, with a generous dose of protein from the cream cheese and a satisfying crunch from the hazelnuts. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation – after all, you don’t want to spoil your appetite for the next flavor adventure!
- Serving Size: 1/12 of the cheesecake
- Calories: 424 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbs: 35 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Sodium: 281 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut in the crust?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the hazelnuts for your nut of choice, such as almonds or pecans, to create a unique twist on the classic crust.
How can I make this cheesecake even more chocolatey?
If you’re a true chocoholic, you can try adding a few ounces of melted dark chocolate to the filling for an even richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake is the perfect make-ahead dessert. Simply prepare the cheesecake, chill it in the fridge for at least 4 hours (or up to 5 days), and then add the final chocolate drizzle and chopped hazelnuts just before serving.
Is there a way to make this cheesecake gluten-free?
To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply swap out the graham cracker crumbs in the crust for crushed gluten-free cookies or a nut-based crust.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Absolutely! This Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake freezes beautifully. Simply wrap the whole cheesecake (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Try These Next
- Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake
- Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Bars
- Decadent Chocolate Bacon Cheesecake
Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 240 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups crushed chocolate graham crackers
1/3 cup melted butter
2 cups cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup hazelnut spread
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix crushed chocolate graham crackers and melted butter until combined. Press into the bottom of a springform pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
4. Add hazelnut spread and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
8. Before serving, whip the heavy cream and spread it on top of the cheesecake, then sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate in the crust.
This cheesecake can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: cheesecake, chocolate, hazelnut, dessert