Kahlua Milk Chocolate Cheesecake
Description
This decadent dessert flips tradition on its head by baking a rich, creamy cheesecake infused with Kahlua and milk chocolate, then inverting it so a crunchy hazelnut and cornflake crust sits on the bottom. The texture is impossibly smooth and dense, offering a sophisticated balance of sweet chocolate and robust coffee notes. Perfect for holidays, anniversaries, or any occasion calling for a show-stopping finale. While it requires patience for chilling and baking, the result is a restaurant-quality treat that feels homemade. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 300F (150C).
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Butter a 9-inch round springform pan thoroughly.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and sour cream until smooth and lump-free, scraping down the sides of the bowl often.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole eggs and Kahlua until well combined.
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Add the egg mixture to the cream cheese mixture in three parts, mixing on low speed after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
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In a separate medium bowl, place the 4 ounces of melted milk chocolate.
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Slowly whisk a small amount of the cheesecake batter into the melted chocolate to temper it, whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture.
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Pour the chocolate mixture back into the main cheesecake batter and fold gently until completely blended and no streaks remain.
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Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared springform pan.
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Place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan (water bath).
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Bake for 1.5 hours, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
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Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool completely at room temperature.
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Once cooled, cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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While the cheesecake chills, prepare the crust: In a double boiler, melt the 3 ounces of milk chocolate and butter together, stirring until dissolved.
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Remove from heat and stir in the ground hazelnuts and crushed cornflakes.
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Remove the chilled cheesecake from the refrigerator and pour the warm chocolate-hazelnut mixture evenly over the top.
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Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator and allow the crust to set completely, preferably overnight.
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To serve, run a knife around the edge of the springform pan and release the latch.
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Carefully invert the cheesecake onto a large serving plate so the crust is on the bottom.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1256.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 70.2g108%
- Saturated Fat 37.5g188%
- Cholesterol 785.3mg262%
- Sodium 636.9mg27%
- Total Carbohydrate 126.7g43%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 125.2g
- Protein 34.3g69%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps.
The water bath is crucial for even baking and preventing cracks in the cheesecake.
Allow the cheesecake to chill fully before attempting to invert; it should be firm to hold its shape.
If Kahlua is unavailable, you can substitute with strong brewed coffee mixed with a splash of vanilla extract and a teaspoon of instant coffee powder.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.