Ingredients
For the Oreo Crust
- 30 Oreos (crumbled) – These create a rich, chocolatey base. You can use a food processor or a sturdy bag and rolling pin to get fine crumbs.
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder – This enhances the coffee flavor of the crust, giving a slight bitterness to balance the sweetness.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Acts as a binding agent for the crumbs and adds richness to the crust.
For the Coffee Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese (room temperature) – The base of the cheesecake, ensuring a creamy texture.
- ½ cup sour cream (room temperature) – Adds a slight tang, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the creamy consistency.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling to perfection.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Brings a subtle warmth to complement the coffee.
- 3 large eggs + 1 egg yolk (room temperature) – Provides structure, creating that luscious, custard-like texture.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Thickens the filling and contributes to a smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons espresso powder – Infuses the filling with a deep coffee flavor.
For the Chocolate Ganache
- 3.5 oz dark chocolate – Adds a luxurious, rich layer of chocolate. Dark chocolate pairs well with coffee, adding depth to the flavor.
- 3.5 oz heavy cream – Creates a silky consistency for the ganache.
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder – Intensifies the chocolate flavor with a hint of coffee.
For the Coffee Whipped Cream
- ⅔ cup heavy cream (cold) – Whips into a light, airy topping.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream just enough to balance the espresso.
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder – Adds coffee flavor to the whipped cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Complements the coffee, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- Using a food processor, pulse 30 Oreos into fine crumbs. (Alternatively, place Oreos in a zip-lock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.)
- In a mixing bowl, combine Oreo crumbs and ½ teaspoon espresso powder, stirring until well-blended.
- Add ⅓ cup melted butter and mix until all crumbs are coated.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer.
- Bake for 8 minutes. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Coffee Cheesecake Filling
- Reduce oven temperature to 140°C (280°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 24 oz room-temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add ½ cup sour cream, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Lightly whisk 3 eggs and 1 egg yolk. Gradually incorporate them into the mixture. Avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles.
- Sift in 2 tablespoons cornstarch and add 2 tablespoons espresso powder. Mix gently until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and tap the pan on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until edges are set and the center remains slightly jiggly.
3. Cooling and Chilling
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1-2 hours with the door ajar. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
- Wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours to set.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Place 3.5 oz dark chocolate, 3.5 oz heavy cream, and ½ teaspoon espresso powder in a bowl.
- Microwave for 1 minute. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the cheesecake, smoothing it with a spatula. Refrigerate briefly to set the ganache.
5. Make the Coffee Whipped Cream
- In a chilled mixing bowl, whip ⅔ cup cold heavy cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon espresso powder, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Pipe or spread the whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake.
Notes
- Substitute for Espresso Powder: If you don’t have espresso powder, instant coffee granules work well. Use about half the amount, as it has a stronger flavor.
- For a Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular Oreos with gluten-free cookies or graham crackers.
- Variations on Ganache: Swap dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Decaf: For a caffeine-free dessert, use decaf espresso powder throughout.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American