Quick Overview

If you’re a fan of creamy desserts that satisfy your sweet tooth, then this Nutella® Cheesecake is the perfect treat for you. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the rich flavor of Nutella with a smooth cream cheese filling on a crunchy crust. Whether it’s for a birthday party or just a cozy night in, this cake will surely impress your guests. Let’s dive into how to create your very own indulgent Nutella® Cheesecake.

Ingredient Breakdown

Cream Cheese (16 oz)

Cream cheese serves as the base for our cheesecake. It provides that rich and creamy texture that makes cheesecakes so irresistible. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor.

Sugar (1 cup)

Sugar balances out the cream cheese’s tanginess and enhances the overall sweetness of the dessert. Granulated sugar works best in this recipe to achieve the perfect texture.

Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup)

Heavy whipping cream adds fluffiness and richness to the cheesecake. Beating it until stiff peaks form allows the filling to set properly while maintaining its lightness.

Nutella® (1 cup)

The star ingredient of our cheesecake, Nutella®, gives it that iconic chocolate-hazelnut flavor. This creamy spread will be mixed into both the filling and used as a topping for extra indulgence.

Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 ½ cups)

Graham cracker crumbs form the crust of our cheesecake. They provide a sweet and crunchy base that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling. You can crush them easily by using a food processor or placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin.

Unsalted Butter (½ cup)

Unsalted butter helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together for a firm crust. Melted butter mixed with crumbs creates a cohesive mixture that holds its shape when pressed into the pan.

Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons)

Vanilla extract adds depth and enhances all flavors in the cheesecake. It’s an essential ingredient that complements both chocolate and cream cheese beautifully.

Step By Step Recipe: Nutella® Cheesecake

Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup melted unsalted butter. Mix until well combined and press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for about 8 minutes until slightly golden, then allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.

Mix Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps remaining in this mixture; it should be silky smooth for optimal texture in your cheesecake base.

Add Heavy Cream

Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream into your cream cheese mixture along with 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Beat this mixture on high speed until stiff peaks form, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that light texture we love in cheesecakes.

Fold in Nutella®

Gently fold in 1 cup of Nutella® into your whipped cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate your whipped cream; you want to keep as much air in as possible to ensure the cake remains fluffy throughout.

Pour Filling into Crust

Once everything is combined well, pour your Nutella® cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in your springform pan. Use a spatula to evenly spread it out across the top so that it’s nice and level before refrigerating it.

Chill Until Set

Cover your springform pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least four hours or overnight if possible—this helps set up the flavors beautifully while ensuring that it holds its shape when sliced.

Prepare Chocolate Ganache Topping

To prepare an optional topping, heat ½ cup of heavy whipping cream until it’s just simmering but not boiling. Pour it over 4 ounces of chopped bittersweet chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate in another bowl. Let sit for a minute before stirring until smooth; this creates a luxurious ganache that complements our cheesecake perfectly!

Drizzle Ganache Over Cheesecake

Once your cheesecake has set sufficiently, remove it from the refrigerator and carefully release it from the springform pan. Drizzle your prepared ganache over top before garnishing with crushed hazelnuts or additional dollops of Nutella®.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve Chilled

For optimal taste and texture, serve your Nutella® Cheesecake chilled straight from the refrigerator. This allows every slice to remain firm while showcasing its rich flavors perfectly—a must when entertaining guests!

Store Leftovers Properly

If you have leftovers after indulging, store them covered tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil inside an airtight container placed back into your fridge. Your cheesecake should stay fresh for up to five days if stored properly—though we doubt it’ll last that long!

Freeze for Longer Storage

For long-term storage, consider freezing slices individually wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing them in freezer-safe bags or containers up to three months ahead! Simply thaw overnight before enjoying again later on special occasions!

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making Nutella® cheesecake is not allowing the cream cheese to soften. Cold cream cheese leads to lumps in your batter, resulting in a less creamy texture. Always let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing.

Another mistake is overmixing the batter. While you want a smooth consistency, overmixing can introduce air bubbles that cause the cheesecake to crack during baking. Mix until just combined and be gentle when folding in ingredients like whipped cream.

Don’t skip the chilling step after baking. Many people cut into their cheesecake too soon, which can ruin its structure and flavor. Make sure to chill your Nutella® cheesecake for at least four hours, or overnight if possible, for the best results.

Using the wrong crust can also affect your dessert’s taste and texture. A classic graham cracker crust complements Nutella® cheesecake beautifully. Avoid using flavored or overly sweet crusts, as they can overpower the rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor.

Lastly, be cautious with the heat while baking. Baking at too high a temperature can lead to uneven cooking and cracks on the surface. Always follow the recommended temperature and keep an eye on your cheesecake as it bakes.

Tips and tricks

To achieve a perfect Nutella® cheesecake, start by selecting high-quality ingredients. Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture; avoid low-fat versions that can compromise flavor and mouthfeel. Always measure out your ingredients accurately since even slight variations can alter the final product.

Consider using a springform pan for easy removal of your cheesecake once baked. Line the bottom with parchment paper to further ensure that it releases smoothly without sticking. This technique also makes serving much simpler.

When mixing your ingredients, take care not to incorporate too much air into the batter. Instead of using an electric mixer on high speed, opt for mixing by hand or on low speed until just combined. This will help create a denser, creamier filling that holds up well during slicing.

For an added touch of flavor, consider incorporating a swirl of Nutella® into the batter before baking. Use a knife or skewer to create beautiful marbled patterns that not only look stunning but also give each slice an extra burst of chocolate-hazelnut goodness.

Finally, experiment with toppings after chilling your Nutella® cheesecake. Whipped cream, crushed hazelnuts, or chocolate shavings elevate presentation and add delicious textures that complement this rich dessert beautifully.

Suggestions for Nutella® Cheesecake

Pair your Nutella® cheesecake with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a delightful contrast in flavors. The tartness of these fruits balances out the sweetness of the cheesecake effectively while adding a refreshing element.

Consider serving with coffee or espresso as well; their robust flavors enhance the chocolate notes in your cheesecake and make for a perfect dessert pairing after dinner or during gatherings.

For those who prefer a more indulgent experience, drizzle melted chocolate over each slice just before serving. This extra layer of richness will delight any chocolate lover and make this dessert even more irresistible.

If you’re looking to celebrate special occasions like birthdays or holidays with this treat, consider personalizing slices with piped whipped cream decorations or festive sprinkles on top. This attention to detail makes every bite feel special and celebratory.

Lastly, if you are preparing this dessert in advance for an event, keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to three days without losing its freshness—making it convenient for parties or family gatherings.

FAQs

What is Nutella® Cheesecake made of?

Nutella® cheesecake typically consists of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and plenty of Nutella®. You’ll also need ingredients for the crust—usually graham cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter—and sometimes additional toppings like whipped cream or chocolate shavings for decoration.

How long should I chill my Nutella® Cheesecake?

It’s essential to chill your Nutella® cheesecake for at least four hours after baking but overnight is preferable for optimal texture and flavor development. Chilling allows it to firm up properly so every slice holds its shape when served while enhancing its overall taste profile.

Can I freeze Nutella® Cheesecake?

Yes! You can freeze Nutella® cheesecake if you need to store leftovers or prepare ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing it in an airtight container. It lasts about one month frozen but should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before serving again.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free cookies or almond flour mixed with melted butter as a substitute for traditional graham crackers when making your crust. This option ensures that everyone enjoys this delicious treat without dietary restrictions interfering.

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

While you can substitute lower-fat options such as reduced-fat cream cheese or lighter whipped creams, be aware that they may alter both taste and texture of your Nutella® cheesecake significantly—resulting in less richness compared to using full-fat versions.

How do I prevent cracks in my Cheesecake?

Preventing cracks involves several strategies: use room temperature ingredients; avoid overmixing; bake at low temperatures; place a water bath around your springform pan; and allow proper cooling times both during baking and after removing from oven—this helps maintain even cooking throughout!

Summary

In summary, creating a delicious Nutella® cheesecake requires careful preparation and attention to detail—from ingredient selection to proper chilling times. Avoid common mistakes like overmixing or skipping refrigeration steps to ensure you end up with a rich dessert that impresses everyone at the table. Keep these tips handy as you embark on making this delightful treat!