Vanilla Cheesecake with Chocolate Crust – A Decadent Classic with a Twist

Vanilla Cheesecake with Chocolate Crust is a dessert that blends elegance with indulgence. Creamy, velvety vanilla cheesecake sits atop a rich chocolate cookie crust, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of dessert that feels luxurious enough for celebrations, yet simple enough to make at home.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a holiday feast, or just craving a slice of something sweet, this cheesecake will never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Creamy: A smooth vanilla filling that melts in your mouth.
Chocolatey Contrast: The cocoa crust balances the creamy sweetness.
Impressive Yet Easy: Looks like a bakery dessert but comes together simply.
Perfect for Celebrations: Elegant enough for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, without filling)
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or flour)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup milk

Optional Toppings:

• Shaved chocolate
• Fresh berries
• Light chocolate drizzle

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.

2. Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, eggs, cornstarch, vanilla, and milk. Mix until creamy and lump-free.

3. Bake the Cheesecake
Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.

4. Cool & Chill
Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. Serve
Top with shaved chocolate, a drizzle of syrup, or fresh berries before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 230
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 12g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overbake: The center should jiggle slightly—this sets during cooling.
• Use a Water Bath (Optional): Helps prevent cracks for a smoother top.
• Chill Overnight: Enhances flavor and makes slicing easier.
• Customize: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or swirl in raspberry puree for a twist.

Why This Recipe Works

The chocolate crust provides the perfect bittersweet contrast to the silky vanilla cheesecake filling, creating harmony in every bite. This dessert is balanced, crowd-pleasing, and versatile enough for both casual and formal occasions.

Vanilla Cheesecake with Chocolate Crust is a dessert that delivers elegance and indulgence in one slice. With its creamy vanilla filling and rich cocoa base, it’s a recipe you’ll return to for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want a show-stopping sweet treat.