Dreamy Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Creamy chocolate mascarpone cheesecake offers a luxurious twist on classic dessert traditions.

Silky layers melt across your palate with incredible smoothness.

rich cocoa notes dance through each delectable bite.

Italian mascarpone brings unparalleled depth and velvety texture to this indulgent treat.

Dessert enthusiasts appreciate subtle complexity that emerges from carefully balanced ingredients.

Smooth chocolate promises an elegant experience for passionate sweet lovers.

You won’t be able to resist this decadent masterpiece waiting to enchant your senses.

Serving with Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake

• Sip Robust Red Wine: Select a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that complements the deep chocolate notes, balancing the creamy cheesecake's richness with its tannic structure and dark fruit undertones.
• Brew Bold Coffee: Choose a strong espresso or dark roast coffee to enhance the chocolate's intensity, creating a classic dessert pairing that highlights the cake's deep, complex flavors.
• Enjoy Sweet Dessert Liqueur: Drizzle a shot of chocolate liqueur like Godiva or Bailey's Irish Cream alongside each slice, adding an extra layer of decadent chocolate flavor that intensifies the dessert's luxurious profile.
• Garnish with Fresh Berries: Add a small side of raspberry or strawberry compote to provide a bright, tart contrast against the cheesecake's dense, creamy texture, cutting through the richness with a refreshing fruity accent.

Recipe Ideas for Cheesecake Twists

• Gluten-Free Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake: Replace chocolate graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs or almond flour. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegan Chocolate Mascarpone Alternative: Swap cream cheese and mascarpone with cashew-based cream cheese. Use coconut cream instead of sour cream, and replace eggs with silken tofu or aquafaba. Select dairy-free dark chocolate for the ganache.
• Low-Carb Chocolate Cheesecake: Substitute graham cracker crust with crushed pecans or almond flour mixed with melted butter. Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia. Choose high-percentage dark chocolate with minimal sugar content.
• Dairy-Free Chocolate Cheesecake: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives like soy or almond-based cream cheese. Replace mascarpone with coconut cream. Select dairy-free dark chocolate and coconut milk for ganache preparation.

FAQs

• What makes mascarpone different from cream cheese?

Mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese with a higher fat content and smoother, richer texture compared to regular cream cheese. It provides a silkier, more luxurious taste to the cheesecake.

• Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Dark chocolate is recommended because it provides a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor. Milk chocolate is sweeter and might make the cheesecake too sugary and less complex in taste.

• Why do I need to bake the cheesecake slowly and cool it in the oven?

Slow baking and gradual cooling prevent cracks from forming and help create a smooth, creamy texture. The gentle temperature change prevents the cheesecake from collapsing or developing unsightly surface breaks.

• Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

Yes, a springform pan allows you to remove the cheesecake easily without damaging its delicate structure. The removable sides make serving and presentation much easier and cleaner.

Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake Overview

• Reasons to Love This Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake
• Luxurious blend of mascarpone and dark chocolate creates an ultra-rich, velvety texture that transforms an ordinary cheesecake into a gourmet masterpiece.
• Surprisingly simple recipe that looks and tastes like a professional bakery creation, perfect for home cooks wanting to wow guests without complex techniques.
• Ideal for special celebrations, dinner parties, or romantic desserts that appeal to chocolate lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts of all ages.
• Can be prepared in advance, allowing stress-free entertaining and ensuring maximum flavor development through overnight chilling.

Ingredients for Mascarpone Cheesecake

• Chocolate Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that adds a rich, chocolatey foundation to the cheesecake.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust together and provides a smooth, rich texture.
• Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy base for the cheesecake with a tangy flavor.
• Mascarpone Cheese: Adds extra richness and a luxurious, velvety texture to the filling.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese.
• Sour Cream: Enhances the creamy texture and adds a subtle tang to the cheesecake.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling.
• Large Eggs: Helps bind the filling and provides structure to the cheesecake.
• Dark Chocolate: Delivers a deep, intense chocolate flavor to the filling.
• Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolate taste and adds depth to the cheesecake.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a smooth, glossy ganache with a rich texture.
• Dark Chocolate: Provides a luxurious, intense chocolate flavor to the topping.

• Fresh Berries, Chocolate Shavings, Whipped Cream: Adds visual appeal and extra flavor to the finished cheesecake.

Baking Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake

Step 1: Create Chocolatey Crust

Preheat your oven to toasty 350F.

Grab a mixing bowl and combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar.

Press this delicious mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Pop it in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.

Let the crust cool completely while you prepare the luxurious filling.

Step 2: Whip Up Silky Filling

In a large mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, mascarpone, and sugar until super smooth and creamy.

Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.

Gently incorporate eggs one at a time, beating on low speed.

Fold in melted dark chocolate and cocoa powder until beautifully combined.

Step 3: Bake To Perfection

Pour the velvety filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the center is slightly set but still has a gentle jiggle.

Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool slowly for about an hour.

Step 4: Chill And Set

Remove the cheesecake and let it cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set perfectly.

Step 5: Create Luscious Ganache Topping

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it starts simmering.

Remove from heat and pour over chopped dark chocolate.

Wait 2-3 minutes, then stir until silky smooth.

Drizzle and spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Slice the cheesecake and serve.

Optional: Garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Tips for Chocolate Cheesecake Success

• Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter thoroughly to ensure a compact, stable base that holds together perfectly when sliced.
• Beat cream cheese and mascarpone at room temperature to eliminate lumps, creating a silky-smooth cheesecake texture without overmixing.
• Bake cheesecake in a water bath or slowly cool inside the oven to prevent surface cracks and maintain a creamy, even consistency.
• Melt dark chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts to prevent burning and maintain rich chocolate flavor.
• Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and achieve the ideal firm yet creamy texture.

Saving Mascarpone Cheesecake

• Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
• Slice the cheesecake into individual portions, wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Gently warm individual slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid using a microwave, which can make the texture rubbery and compromise the creamy consistency.
• Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly and enhance its rich, smooth flavor profile.

Chocolate Mascarpone Cheesecake Recipe

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4.6 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Rich, silky chocolate mascarpone cheesecake promises a luxurious dessert experience that melts hearts with its creamy Italian-inspired indulgence. Chocolate lovers will swoon over this elegant, velvety treat that delivers pure bliss in every decadent bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 8 ounces (226 grams) mascarpone cheese, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream

Chocolate Components:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) melted dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
• 1/2 cup (85 grams) dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup (25 grams) cocoa powder, sifted

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) chocolate graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Craft the foundation by blending chocolate graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 350F (175C) for 8-10 minutes, creating a crisp, chocolatey base. Allow the crust to cool completely.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese, mascarpone, and sugar until achieving a velvety smooth consistency. Gently fold in sour cream and vanilla extract, ensuring thorough integration.
3. Incorporate eggs individually, mixing on low speed to maintain a delicate texture. Introduce melted dark chocolate and cocoa powder, stirring until the filling develops a rich, uniform color and silky appearance.
4. Transfer the luscious filling onto the cooled crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Position in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The ideal doneness is a slightly set center with a subtle jiggle when gently nudged.
5. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Allow the cheesecake to gradually cool for approximately one hour, preventing sudden temperature changes that could cause cracking.
6. Remove from the oven and let it reach room temperature completely. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or preferably overnight to achieve optimal setting and flavor development.
7. For the optional ganache, gently heat heavy cream until it reaches a soft simmer. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Whisk until achieving a glossy, smooth consistency.
8. Drizzle the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, spreading evenly to create an elegant finish. Optionally garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

Notes

• Prevent cracking by avoiding overmixing the cheesecake batter and using room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, even blending.
• Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water during baking to maintain consistent temperature and prevent surface cracks.
• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs for those with dietary restrictions.
• Reduce sugar content by using dark chocolate with higher cocoa percentage or substituting some sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia for a lower-calorie version.

• Prep Time: 6 hours
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 570
• Sugar: 35 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 23 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 49 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg