Description
This German Chocolate Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic coconut-pecan topping of German chocolate cake. It’s a decadent dessert perfect for special occasions or whenever you want an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, without the filling)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 packages (675 g/24 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (90 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
For the Coconut-Pecan Topping:
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (75 g) sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped pecans
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom in aluminum foil to prevent leaks.
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Make the Crust:
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to form an even layer. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
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Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cocoa powder, mixing until incorporated.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the melted chocolate until the mixture is fully combined.
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Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
- Place the springform pan into a larger baking dish and pour hot water into the dish to create a water bath (about 1 inch deep).
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
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Cool the Cheesecake:
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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Make the Coconut-Pecan Topping:
- In a medium saucepan, combine evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 8-10 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let the topping cool completely.
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Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Spread the cooled coconut-pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake.
- Garnish with extra pecans, coconut, or a drizzle of melted chocolate if desired.
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Serve:
- Slice and serve chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- For clean slices, run your knife under hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.
- If you prefer a sweeter topping, add 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the coconut-pecan mixture.
- This cheesecake can be frozen (without the topping) for up to 3 months. Add the topping after thawing.