Chocolate cheesecake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich and creamy texture of traditional cheesecake with the indulgent flavor of chocolate. The origins of cheesecake can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was served to athletes during the first Olympic games in 776 BC. However, the ancient Greek version was likely more akin to a savory dish made with cheese, honey, and wheat.

The modern version of cheesecake, as we know it today, is believed to have originated in New York City in the late 1800s. Cream cheese, which is the primary ingredient in most cheesecakes, was accidentally invented in 1872 by William Lawrence, a dairyman from New York. His attempt to replicate the French cheese “Neufchâtel” resulted in a creamier and less crumbly product, which eventually led to the creation of cream cheese.

Chocolate cheesecake itself became popular in the mid-20th century as chocolate became more widely available and widely loved. The combination of creamy cheesecake with a luscious chocolate flavor quickly won the hearts of dessert enthusiasts around the world.

Our chocolate cheesecake recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, taking the traditional flavors to new heights. It features a delectable graham cracker crust that adds a buttery and crunchy base to the creamy cheesecake filling. The rich and velvety filling is made with cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, ensuring a smooth and luxurious texture.

Once baked to perfection, the cheesecake is allowed to cool and then frozen, which helps it set and become firm. After freezing, the cheesecake is cut into bite-sized squares, perfect for serving and enjoying.

But what sets this chocolate cheesecake apart is the final step – the decadent chocolate coating. The cheesecake squares are dipped, one by one, into a luscious blend of melted semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. This heavenly chocolate shell adds a luxurious touch and elevates the overall flavor experience.

Now that we’ve explored the history and story behind chocolate cheesecake, let’s dive into the recipe with its ingredients and instructions.

INGREDIENTS

• 1¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 4 tablespoons coconut oil

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line an 8-inch square pan with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the prepared pan to create the crust.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 5-6 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
5. In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
6. Add the sour cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla to the cream cheese. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
7. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust in the pan.
8. Bake the cheesecake in the oven for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set.
9. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan.
10. Once cooled, freeze the cheesecake in the pan overnight or for at least 3 hours to firm it up for easier handling.
11. Lift the frozen cheesecake out of the pan by grabbing the foil edges and gently peeling away the foil.
12. With a sharp knife, cut the frozen cheesecake into 36 squares of equal size.
13. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil until smooth and fully melted.
14. Dip each cheesecake square, one at a time, into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
15. Place the chocolate-coated squares onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
16. Repeat the dipping process with the rest of the cheesecake squares.
17. Place the cheesecake bites in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate coating to set.

Enjoy these delectable chocolate cheesecake bites as a perfect treat for any occasion or as a delightful way to end a meal!