1. **Introduction**:
This baked cheesecake with chocolate cookie dough crust offers a perfect balance between creamy cheesecake and rich chocolate. The combination of the smooth, tangy filling with sweet cookie dough creates a unique and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
2. **Ingredients**:
**For the Crust and Topping**:
– 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie dough (store-bought or homemade)
**For the Cheesecake Filling**:
– 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour (optional, to stabilize the filling)
3. **Instructions/Preparation**:
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
– Grease a springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Dough**:
– If you’re making your own dough, prepare it according to your favorite recipe.
– Divide the dough in half—use one half to press into the bottom and sides of the springform pan, forming the crust.
– Reserve the other half for topping.
3. **Make the Cheesecake Filling**:
– In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
– Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
– Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract, blending until fully combined.
– If using, add the flour to stabilize the filling, and mix until incorporated.
4. **Assemble the Cheesecake**:
– Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust.
– Take the reserved chocolate cookie dough and drop spoonfuls of dough over the top of the cheesecake, spacing them evenly.
5. **Bake the Cheesecake**:
– Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still has a slight jiggle.
– Turn off the oven and crack the door slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly for about 1 hour. This prevents cracking.
6. **Chill the Cheesecake**:
– Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
4. **Cooking Methods**:
The cheesecake is **baked** in a low-temperature oven, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture. Cooling slowly in the oven prevents cracking.
5. **Time**:
– **Preparation Time**: 30-40 minutes
– **Baking Time**: 55-65 minutes
– **Cooling and Chilling Time**: 4-5 hours (including in-oven cooling and refrigeration)
6. **Serving**:
Serve chilled for the best texture. For garnish, you can add a dollop of whipped cream or drizzle melted chocolate over the top. The chocolate cookie dough adds texture and flavor, making this dessert a standout treat.
7. **Nutritional Benefits**:
– **Cream Cheese**: Rich in calcium and provides a creamy texture, but high in fats.
– **Eggs**: A great source of protein.
– **Chocolate**: Contains antioxidants, but should be enjoyed in moderation due to sugar content.
8. **Conclusion**:
This cheesecake with chocolate cookie dough is an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress. For a fun variation, you could add chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling or use different cookie dough flavors. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to a month.