Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake featuring a buttery cookie dough crust layered with a luscious chocolate-studded cheesecake filling. Perfectly baked to achieve a smooth, slightly jiggle-centered texture, this decadent dessert is a chocolate lover’s dream come true with a delightful blend of cookie crunch and velvety cheesecake.
Ingredients
Scale
FOR THE COOKIE DOUGH BASE
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup (130g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (85g) semi-sweet chocolate chunks (roughly chopped chocolate bar or store-bought chunks)
FOR THE CHEESECAKE FILLING
- 3 (8 oz / 680g total) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (130g) chocolate chunks
- 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- PREPARE THE PAN: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides to ensure easy release of the cheesecake later.
- MAKE THE COOKIE DOUGH BASE: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer. This creates the rich base for the crust.
- ADD EGG AND VANILLA: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- ADD DRY INGREDIENTS: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough which can toughen the crust.
- FOLD IN CHOCOLATE: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chunks gently using a spatula until distributed evenly in the dough.
- PRESS INTO PAN: Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating a uniform and level crust layer. Set aside while preparing the cheesecake filling.
- MAKE THE CHEESECAKE FILLING: In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes, to ensure a creamy texture.
- ADD SOUR CREAM AND VANILLA: Incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- ADD EGGS: Beat in the eggs one at a time on low speed, mixing just until each is incorporated to prevent air bubbles and overmixing which can cause cracks.
- ADD FLOUR: Add the flour and stir until just blended to maintain smooth consistency.
- FOLD IN CHOCOLATE: Gently fold in the chocolate chunks and mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the cheesecake batter.
- ASSEMBLE THE CHEESECAKE: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared cookie dough crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth surface.
- REMOVE AIR BUBBLES: Gently tap the pan on the counter a few times to help release any trapped air bubbles for an even bake.
- BAKE: Place the cheesecake in the center of the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle when the pan is gently shaken.
- COOL IN OVEN: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking from rapid temperature changes.
- COOL COMPLETELY: Remove the pan from the oven and place on a wire rack. Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature fully.
- CHILL: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix the batter once eggs are added to prevent cracks during baking.
- Using a springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake without damaging the crust.
- Let the cheesecake chill sufficiently for clean slices and optimal flavor.
- Line the pan bottom with parchment paper to avoid sticking and improve removal.
- The slight jiggle at the center after baking indicates the perfect creamy texture once chilled.
