Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Is that coffee?” I overheard someone whisper as we gathered around the dessert table. The rich aroma wafting through the room was irresistible, drawing everyone closer to my latest creation: a decadent Coffee Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache. This creamy delight promises to transport you to a cozy café with every bite, thanks to the bold espresso flavor and a silky ganache topping. Perfect for entertaining, this dessert not only impresses with its stunning presentation but also offers a comforting, homemade touch that will have your loved ones raving. Plus, its easy prep means you can whip it up without breaking a sweat. Ready to indulge in a slice of pure bliss? Let’s dive into making this coffee lover’s dream dessert! Why Is Coffee Cheesecake So Irresistible? Decadent Delight: This recipe features a rich and creamy coffee cheesecake that elevates your dessert game with its intense espresso flavor—ideal for coffee enthusiasts. Velvety Ganache: Topped with a silky chocolate espresso ganache, each slice combines indulgence and sophistication, making it perfect for gatherings. Effortlessly Achievable: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results. Versatile Base: Feel free to switch the Oreo crust for a graham cracker alternative for a fun twist! Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at parties and watch it disappear—everyone will be asking for seconds! For more coffee-inspired treats, don’t miss my delightful Oreo Cheesecake Decadent and Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake recipes. Coffee Cheesecake Ingredients For the Crust • Oreo Crust – Made from Oreo cookie crumbs, this sweet base provides a delightful chocolate flavor that complements the cheesecake perfectly. • Unsalted Butter – Helps bind the crust together and ensures a rich texture when melted. For the Cheesecake Filling • Full Fat Block Cream Cheese – Essential for a creamy texture; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth blending. • Granulated Sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness to balance the strong coffee flavors. • Full Fat Sour Cream – Brings creaminess and a slight tang; also needs to be at room temperature. • Vanilla Extract – Use pure vanilla extract for a deeper, richer flavor in your cheesecake. • Large Eggs – These give structure, so make sure to keep them at room temperature for easier mixing. • Espresso Powder – This concentrated coffee ingredient enhances the coffee profile within the cheesecake filling. For the Ganache and Whipped Cream • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Provides a delightful chocolate flavor for the ganache, balancing the richness of the coffee. • Heavy Whipping Cream – Essential for both the ganache and the whipped cream, contributing to a light, airy texture. • Granulated or Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream; powdered sugar dissolves more quickly, giving it a smooth finish. Enjoy creating your own coffee cheesecake masterpiece, and let the aromas fill your kitchen with warm, inviting scents that beckon everyone to the table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Crust Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). While it’s heating, take 20 Oreos and crush them into fine crumbs, combining them with melted unsalted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the base of a greased 9″ springform pan. Bake the crust for 8 minutes until set, then remove and let it cool completely. Step 2: Prepare Cheesecake Filling In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, continuing to mix until well combined. Incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract, ensuring a consistent mixture. Add the large eggs one by one, mixing gently, then stir in the espresso powder until fully blended for your rich coffee cheesecake filling. Step 3: Bake Cheesecake Pour the creamy filling into the cooled Oreo crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. To create a water bath, place the springform pan into a larger baking dish filled with hot water halfway up the sides. Bake your coffee cheesecake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes, until the center jiggles slightly. After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour. Step 4: Chill Carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool on a rack for an additional 2 hours. Once cooled, wrap it well and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight if possible. This chilling time allows the flavors of your coffee cheesecake to deepen and helps achieve the perfect texture. Step 5: Make Ganache In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to bubble gently. Remove from heat and immediately pour the hot cream over semi-sweet chocolate chips mixed with espresso powder. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before spreading over the chilled cheesecake. Step 6: Prepare Coffee Whipped Cream In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and a touch of espresso powder until stiff peaks form. This will create a luscious coffee whipped cream that perfectly complements your cheesecake. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the chocolate ganache for an indulgent finish. Step 7: Serve Gently release the cheesecake from the springform pan and slice it into equal pieces. Each slice showcases the creamy layers of your decadent coffee cheesecake. Serve it chilled and watch as smiles light up the room—this dessert is sure to impress! Make Ahead Options These decadent coffee cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the Oreo crust and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance; just remember to refrigerate the filled pan to keep it fresh and flavorful. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent odors from permeating. The chocolate ganache can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and simply reheat slightly before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake. When ready to serve, top with freshly whipped coffee cream for a delightful finishing touch—this ensures your coffee cheesecake remains just as delicious and impressive as when it was freshly baked! Expert Tips for Coffee Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, lump-free filling for your coffee cheesecake. Avoid Overmixing: After adding the eggs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air, leading to cracks in the cheesecake. Utilize a Water Bath: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps maintain moisture during cooking and prevents cracking. Make sure not to open the oven door while baking! Perfect Cooling Time: It’s crucial to allow your coffee cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven and then chill for at least 6 hours. This enhances the flavors and ensures the perfect texture. Garnish Creatively: Elevate your cheesecake’s presentation with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder before serving. A touch of creativity can wow your guests! Storage Tips for Coffee Cheesecake Fridge: Store leftovers tightly covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep your coffee cheesecake fresh and delicious. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving cheesecake out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as the creamy filling can spoil quickly. Reheating: While it’s not common to reheat cheesecake, if desired, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy your luscious coffee cheesecake! What to Serve with Decadent Coffee Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Savoring a slice of this creamy dessert is even more delightful when complemented with the right pairings that enhance its rich flavors. Fresh Berries: Vibrant strawberries or tart raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake, balancing its sweetness beautifully. Espresso Martinis: These coffee-infused cocktails echo the espresso in your cheesecake, providing a fun twist that coffee lovers will appreciate. Chocolate-Covered Almonds: The nutty crunch enhances the chocolate ganache’s richness, creating a satisfying texture that’s impossible to resist. Whipped Cream Topped with Cocoa Powder: A drizzle of light, airy whipped cream sprinkled with cocoa adds elegance as well as a creamy texture to each bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream serves as a lovely base, helping to amplify the coffee notes in the cheesecake while providing a cool counterpart. Gourmet Coffee: Brew a pot of your favorite coffee blend to create a cozy finish to your dessert experience. The aromatic notes will flow seamlessly with each rich slice. Cheese Platter: Pair the cheesecake with a light cheese platter featuring brie or goat cheese, adding a savory touch that beautifully contrasts with the dessert’s sweetness. Mini Dark Chocolate Cups: These indulgent bites complement the chocolate ganache and espresso, crafting a harmonious flavor experience that will leave guests wanting more. Coffee Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your coffee cheesecake by trying these fun variations that can elevate your dessert experience! Graham Cracker Crust: Swap the Oreo crust for a homemade graham cracker crust for a classic twist that adds a hint of cinnamon. Chocolate Espresso Swirl: Marble in some melted dark chocolate infused with espresso throughout the cheesecake filling for a striking visual and flavor contrast. Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the crust or as a topping for delightful texture and a nutty flavor. Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free yet equally delicious coffee cheesecake. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a surprising warming element that complements the coffee beautifully. Decadent Toppings: Make it truly indulgent by drizzling with caramel sauce or a dollop of coffee ice cream for an extravagant dessert. Fruity Delight: Pair this cheesecake with fresh raspberries or strawberries on top for a sweet and tangy contrast against the rich coffee flavors—a perfect match! Mocha Cheesecake: Substitute half the espresso powder with cocoa powder for a delightful mocha flavor, appealing to chocolate lovers. With these variations, your coffee cheesecake can be personalized to fit any palate or occasion! If you love exploring different cheesecake flavors, you might also delight in my Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake or the unique flavors found in my Red Velvet Cheesecake. Happy baking! Coffee Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of coffee should I use for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend using a high-quality espresso powder for the best flavor. It enhances the coffee notes in the cheesecake and ganache. If you prefer a coarser texture, you can also use finely ground espresso beans, but just ensure it blends well into the batter. How do I know when my cheesecake is ready to come out of the oven? Very good question! The center of the cheesecake should jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan. You want it to appear set around the edges while the middle remains soft, as it will firm up while cooling. Baked at the right temperature (325°F/162°C), a water bath will help it cook evenly and reduce the risk of cracking. What is the best way to store leftover coffee cheesecake? To keep your delicious coffee cheesecake fresh for up to 5 days, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. If you’re looking for longer storage options, you can freeze the cheesecake by slicing it into individual pieces, wrapping them in plastic wrap, and then in foil. It keeps well for up to 3 months—just remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying! Can I make this cheesecake a few days in advance? Absolutely! Making your coffee cheesecake ahead of time is a great idea. It actually benefits from resting in the fridge overnight, allowing the flavors to develop further. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it fresh. Both the cheesecake and the ganache can be made a day or two before serving. What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking? No need to worry! Cracks can happen, but they don’t detract from taste. To prevent them, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing after adding eggs. Additionally, using a water bath helps maintain moisture, reducing the chances of cracks. If you do get cracks, a layer of ganache on top will beautifully cover them up! Is this coffee cheesecake suitable for those with allergies? Great question! This cheesecake contains dairy, eggs, and sugar, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. However, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and egg replacers for a modified version. Always check labels for allergen information if serving to others. Irresistibly Creamy Coffee Cheesecake for Coffee Lovers This Coffee Cheesecake combines rich espresso flavor with a silky ganache, making it the perfect dessert for coffee enthusiasts. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes minsChilling Time 6 hours hrsTotal Time 7 hours hrs 50 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust20 pieces Oreo Cookies Crushed into fine crumbs5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter MeltedFor the Cheesecake Filling16 ounces Full Fat Block Cream Cheese Room temperature1 cup Granulated Sugar1 cup Full Fat Sour Cream Room temperature1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Pure3 large Eggs Room temperature2 tablespoons Espresso PowderFor the Ganache and Whipped Cream1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream1 tablespoon Granulated or Powdered Sugar Equipment Oven9" Springform PanMixing bowlSaucepanSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Coffee CheesecakePreheat your oven to 325°F (162°C) and prepare the crust by crushing Oreos and mixing with melted butter. Press into a greased 9" springform pan and bake for 8 minutes. Let cool.In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add sugar, then sour cream and vanilla. Mix in eggs one at a time, then stir in espresso powder.Pour filling into cooled crust and place in a water bath. Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours until center jiggles slightly. Cool in the oven for 1 hour with oven off.Remove from water bath, cool on rack for 2 hours, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.For ganache, heat heavy cream until bubbling, pour over chocolate chips and espresso powder, stir until smooth, let cool slightly.Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and espresso powder until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe over ganache.Release cheesecake from the pan, slice and serve chilled. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 7gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. Use a water bath to prevent cracking during baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!