German Chocolate Cheesecake
German Chocolate Cheesecake: A Decadent Fusion of Two Classics
When rich, creamy cheesecake meets decadent German chocolate cake, you get an irresistible German Chocolate Cheesecake—a dessert that’s luxurious, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable. This masterpiece features a velvety cheesecake layered with chocolate ganache, nestled on a chocolate cookie crust, and topped with a toasted coconut and pecan topping that makes German chocolate cake so iconic.
Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion, this dessert is bound to impress. If you love cheesecake, chocolate, and nutty coconut flavors, this is your dream dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesecake
✔ Incredibly Creamy & Chocolatey – Smooth cheesecake infused with layers of chocolate.
✔ German Chocolate Cake Meets Cheesecake – All the flavors you love in one bite.
✔ The Ultimate Showstopper – Beautiful layers, topped with ganache, nuts, and coconut.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for celebrations or simply indulging your sweet tooth.
How to Make German Chocolate Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup melted German chocolate (or semisweet chocolate)
For the Chocolate Ganache Layers:
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 6 oz chopped chocolate (semisweet or German chocolate)
For the German Chocolate Topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup evaporated milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For Garnish:
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped pecans
- Chocolate whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Let it cool while preparing the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating.
- Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Divide the batter in half. In one half, fold in melted German chocolate for a chocolate layer.
- Pour the plain cheesecake batter over the crust, then gently layer the chocolate cheesecake batter on top.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Use a water bath (bain-marie): Wrap the cheesecake pan in aluminum foil and place it in a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches 1 inch up the sides.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are set.
- Turn off the oven, crack the oven door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour inside the oven.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before adding the toppings.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
- Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring a layer over the cheesecake. Refrigerate to set.
Step 5: Make the German Chocolate Topping
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then stir in brown sugar and evaporated milk.
- Whisk in egg yolks and cook until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
- Let the topping cool slightly, then spread over the set ganache layer on the cheesecake.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- Pipe chocolate whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake.
- Sprinkle with chocolate shavings and additional chopped pecans for an elegant finish.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy the ultimate German Chocolate Cheesecake experience!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overbeating adds air, which can cause cracks when baking.
✔ Use a Water Bath – This keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents cracking.
✔ Chill for At Least 4 Hours – The cheesecake sets best when fully chilled.
✔ For Clean Slices – Run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe clean between cuts.
Why This Cheesecake is an Instant Favorite
✨ Two Desserts in One – Creamy cheesecake + German chocolate flavors = pure bliss.
✨ Decadent Layers – Chocolate ganache, cheesecake, and coconut-pecan topping make each bite special.
✨ Great for Any Celebration – Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a craving, this cheesecake steals the show.
Final Thoughts
If you love the flavors of German Chocolate Cake but crave the rich creaminess of cheesecake, this German Chocolate Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for you. With its fudgy chocolate crust, creamy filling, rich ganache, and nutty coconut topping, every bite is a luxurious treat.
So, what are you waiting for? Make this masterpiece today and impress your family and friends with one of the most indulgent cheesecakes ever!
