Introduction
Espresso Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for anyone who appreciates the deep, slightly bitter richness of coffee paired with smooth, creamy sweetness. This recipe was developed to strike a balance between bold espresso flavor and classic cheesecake texture, without becoming overly dense or heavy. When I first tested it, I was concerned the coffee might overpower the cheesecake, but instead it added a refined depth that made each bite more satisfying.
This cheesecake is ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you want a dessert that feels elegant yet familiar. The espresso enhances the cream cheese rather than masking it, creating layers of flavor that linger pleasantly. I have served this cheesecake to both coffee lovers and non-coffee drinkers, and it consistently receives praise for its smooth texture and balanced sweetness. It is a dessert that feels indulgent, polished, and worth the extra care.
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Espresso Cheesecake
- Total Time: 80 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy cheesecake infused with bold espresso flavor, set on a buttery crust and finished with a smooth coffee-forward finish.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
- 1 tbsp hot water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Chill while preparing the filling.
- Dissolve espresso powder in hot water and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in heavy cream, espresso mixture, vanilla extract, flour, and salt until just combined.
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the center is just set.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- For stronger coffee flavor, add an extra teaspoon of espresso powder.
- Use room-temperature ingredients to avoid lumps.
- Serve with whipped cream or chocolate shavings if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesecake is rich without being overwhelming, creamy without being heavy, and deeply flavorful thanks to the espresso. It slices cleanly, bakes evenly, and delivers a sophisticated dessert experience with relatively simple ingredients. It is a reliable showstopper for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Graham cracker crumbs
Graham cracker crumbs create a buttery, slightly sweet crust that complements the bold espresso flavor.
Butter
Melted butter binds the crust together and adds richness.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese forms the base of the cheesecake, providing a smooth, dense, and creamy texture.
Granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens the cheesecake and balances the bitterness of the espresso.
Eggs
Eggs provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly while remaining creamy.
Sour cream
Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang, preventing the cheesecake from becoming too dense.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream contributes silkiness and enhances the luxurious mouthfeel.
Espresso powder
Espresso powder delivers concentrated coffee flavor without adding excess liquid.
Vanilla extract
Vanilla rounds out the flavors and softens the intensity of the espresso.
Salt
Salt enhances sweetness and sharpens the overall flavor profile.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 325°F and grease a springform pan. Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes and allow it to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, espresso powder, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still has a slight wobble. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually for one hour. Refrigerate for at least four hours before slicing.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 10 slices. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, baking time is about 55 minutes, and chilling time is at least 4 hours.
Storage/reheating
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. Cheesecake is best served chilled and does not require reheating.
Variations and Customizations
This Espresso Cheesecake is highly adaptable. For a chocolate-coffee version, add melted dark chocolate to the batter or drizzle chocolate ganache over the top. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, increase the espresso powder slightly, but avoid adding liquid coffee as it can affect texture.
For a lighter finish, top the cheesecake with lightly sweetened whipped cream. I once added a thin layer of coffee-flavored whipped cream, and it complemented the cheesecake without overpowering it.
You can also experiment with the crust by using chocolate cookie crumbs instead of graham crackers for a deeper flavor profile. Each variation maintains the integrity of the cheesecake while offering a unique twist.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein (g) | 7 |
| Carbs (g) | 34 |
| Fat (g) | 29 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 17 |
| Fiber (g) | 1 |
| Sugar (g) | 25 |
| Sodium (mg) | 310 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use room-temperature ingredients
This ensures a smooth batter and prevents lumps.
Avoid overmixing
Overmixing incorporates excess air, which can cause cracks.
Cool gradually
Slow cooling helps maintain a smooth, even surface.
FAQs
Can I use brewed espresso instead of espresso powder?
Espresso powder is recommended for concentrated flavor without excess moisture.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Rapid cooling or overmixing can cause surface cracks.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to two months.
Is this cheesecake very strong in coffee flavor?
It is balanced and smooth, not overpowering.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal when made a day in advance.
What pairs well with Espresso Cheesecake?
Whipped cream or chocolate drizzle pairs beautifully.
Conclusion
Espresso Cheesecake is a refined, indulgent dessert that blends creamy texture with bold coffee flavor. With its smooth consistency and balanced sweetness, it is a reliable centerpiece for gatherings and a satisfying treat for anyone who enjoys coffee-inspired desserts.
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