Okay, friends, let me tell you about this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe. It’s seriously the perfect blend of two of my all-time favorite desserts! You know how regular cheesecake is amazing, right? And who doesn’t love a good chocolate chip cookie? Well, imagine them getting married and having a delicious little dessert baby! It’s got that creamy, tangy cheesecake filling swirled with pockets of sweet, melty chocolate chips. My grandma used to make the most incredible classic cheesecake, and I always thought, how can I make this even better? The answer, my friends, was chocolate chips. It’s so easy, even on busy weeknights, I can whip it up, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser!
What is chocolate chip cheesecake?
Think of a classic New York-style cheesecake, but with a fun, chocolatey twist. It’s essentially a creamy, dreamy cheesecake base, studded with chocolate chips throughout. The beauty of it is in the simplicity – you’re taking something already wonderful and adding a little extra joy. The chocolate chips don’t just add flavor; they add texture, creating these little bursts of sweetness in every bite. The name says it all, really! It’s the best of both worlds colliding in one utterly delicious dessert. This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe is pure comfort food, but fancy enough to impress your guests!
Why I love this recipe?
Let me tell you why this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe is a winner! First off, the flavor is out of this world! The tanginess of the cheesecake filling perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate chips. It’s a symphony in your mouth, I swear! The recipe is also surprisingly simple. Don’t let the word “cheesecake” intimidate you. It’s way easier than you think. What I love most about this is that it’s so cost-effective. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Plus, this recipe is super versatile. You can serve it as a show-stopping dessert after a fancy dinner, or just enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. Honestly, it rivals any store-bought cheesecake, and it’s way more satisfying knowing you made it yourself. It’s also great for beginner bakers or people who are unsure about their baking abilities.
How do you make chocolate chip cheesecake?
Quick Overview
Making this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll start by preparing the batter and then gently folding in the chocolate chips. After that, you’ll bake it to golden perfection, let it cool, and then drizzle it with a simple glaze. The best part? It all comes together with minimal fuss, and the result is a stunning dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Believe me, it’s easier than making Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What’s the reason
* 32 ounces Cream Cheese, softened: Full-fat is a must for that creamy texture! I always use Philadelphia cream cheese.
* 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness, of course.
* 2 large eggs: Help bind the batter together.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.
* 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a touch of tanginess and moisture.
For the Chocolate Chips:
* 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: I use a mix of regular and mini chocolate chips for the best texture. You can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips to your liking
For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet glaze. * 2-3 tablespoons milk: * 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: 12 teaspoon salt. Adds extra flavor to the glaze. * Optional: A pinch of salt.
How do I follow the
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray. For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper. Trust me, this will make your life so much easier when it comes time to release the cheesecake. Prepare a water bath by wrapping the bottom of the springform pan in heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Then, place the wrapped pan in a larger roasting pan.
Step 2: Mix Cream Cheese & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Set aside. I always use an electric mixer for this step. Make sure there are no lumps! Overmixing can cause cheesecake to crack, so mix on low.
Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla
What is the best way to beat the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. What are the best ways to mix eggs in a bowl?
Step 4: Stir in Sour Cream
Gently stir in the sour cream until just combined. The sour cream adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of cheesecake. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. I like to use a rubber spatula for this step to avoid breaking the chocolate chips.
Step 6: Pour into Pan & Add Water Bath
Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan around the springform pan, filling it about halfway up the sides. This water bath creates a humid environment in the oven, which helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents it from cracking.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cheesecake should be golden brown around the edges but still have a slight wiggle in the center. It will continue to set as it cools. What are some ways to keep cheesecake from cracking? After an hour, remove from oven and take away from water bath.
Step 8: Chill
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool on a wire rack. If you have a freezer, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for cheesecake to fully set and develop its flavor.
Step 9: Make the Glaze & Drizzle
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency. Once the cheesecake is chilled, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the cheesecake. Slice and serve!
What should I serve it with?
What are some good ideas for making a Chocolate Chip Cheesecake? Is it to the next level?
For Breakfast:Pair it with coffee or latte. The sweetness of cheesecake is a perfect complement to the bitterness of coffee. What are some good ways to add fresh berries to a salad?
For Brunch:Serve it alongside a fruit platter and some sparkling wine. The cheesecake adds a touch of elegance to any brunch spread.
As Dessert:Garnish with chocolate shavings or whipped cream. Can you serve it with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or whipped cream? I also like to add fresh raspberries to my recipe.
For Cozy Snacks:What can I do with a slice of toast with milk or hot chocolate? What is the Perfect Comfort Food?
My family loves this cheesecake with a side of fresh strawberries. I’ve had this tradition for years and sometimes I even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
How do you make a delicious chocolate chip cheesecake?
What are some of the best ways to make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake?
Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before you start mixing. This will ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
Mixing Advice:Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause cheesecake to crack during baking.
What is the distribution of chocolate chips? Gently fold in the chocolate chips to avoid breaking them. You want them to be evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Ingredient Swaps: You can use different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate. I’ve also tried adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate cheesecake. Almond extract is also a good swap for vanilla for a more intense flavor.
Baking Tips:Use a water bath to help the cheesecake bake evenly and prevent it from cracking. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the temperature to fluctuate and burn your skin. What leads to cracking?
Glaze Variations:How do you add lemon juice to a glaze? For a chocolate glaze, add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the powdered sugar mixture.
One time, I forgot to soften my cream cheese, and the batter was lumpy. I’m not sure why. Is the texture of the ice cream as good as the taste? If you remove from the water bath be careful because one time it splashed all over me.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store your Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe to keep it fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: You can leave the cheesecake at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the cheesecake, it’s best to wait until after it’s thawed to add the glaze. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy during the freezing process.
I once stored a cheesecake in the fridge for too long, and it started to taste a little off. So, be sure to keep track of how long it’s been stored!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves cheesecake and chocolate chips! It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to impress your friends and family. The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet chocolate chips is simply irresistible. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my classic cheesecake or my chocolate chip cookie recipe. Give this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! Happy baking!