Dark Chocolate And Pumpkin Cheesecake

Servings: 12 Difficulty: Advanced
A rich, spiced pumpkin layer meets decadent chocolate fudge in this elegant fall dessert
Dark Chocolate and Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe image

Dark Chocolate And Pumpkin Cheesecake

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 12 Calories: 1233.6

Description

This luxurious two-layer cheesecake combines the earthy warmth of spiced pumpkin with the deep, intense flavor of dark chocolate. The creamy texture is achieved through careful baking and cooling, resulting in a slice that is both moist and firm enough to hold its shape. The subtle notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in the pumpkin layer complement the bittersweet chocolate ganache perfectly. It is an impressive centerpiece for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving dinner, or any holiday celebration. While it requires some patience to assemble and cool, the result is a sophisticated dessert that feels homemade yet restaurant-quality. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor balance.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius).
  2. Toast the pecan pieces on a baking sheet in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until fragrant. Let cool completely.
  3. Coat the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with 1 teaspoon of melted butter. Wrap the outside bottom of the pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
  4. Prepare the chocolate cheesecake layer by placing 3/4 pound of softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Beat until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add 3 eggs one at a time to the chocolate mixture, beating on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
  6. Pour the chocolate batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top. Cover the top of the pan with plastic wrap to prevent condensation.
  7. Place the pan in a roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the side of the springform pan (water bath).
  8. Bake the chocolate cheesecake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
  9. Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then remove and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  10. While the chocolate layer chills, prepare the pumpkin batter. In a clean bowl, beat 1 pound softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until smooth.
  11. Add 3 eggs one at a time, beating just until combined. Mix in 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon allspice, and 1/8 teaspoon cloves.
  12. Pour the pumpkin batter over the chilled chocolate layer in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  13. Return the pan to the water bath in the oven (refill with hot water if needed). Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
  14. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked for 1 hour.
  15. Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until completely set.
  16. Prepare the ganache by heating 1 inch of water in a saucepan. Place a heatproof bowl over the simmering water. Add chocolate and stir until smooth.
  17. Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator. Unwrap the foil and release the springform sides.
  18. Spread the warm chocolate ganache over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with toasted pecan pieces if desired.
  19. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the ganache. Run a knife under hot water before slicing for clean cuts.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12


Amount Per Serving
Calories 1233.6kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 88.2g136%
Saturated Fat 32.4g162%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 36.0mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 96.8g33%
Dietary Fiber 22.3g90%
Sugars 71.4g
Protein 13.0g26%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: cheesecake, chocolate, pumpkin, dessert, fall, holiday, thanksgiving, ganache, spiced, baking, rich, creamy, pecan, indulgent, autumn, layered
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