Coffee Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Coffee Cheesecake Recipe: A Heavenly Dessert Escape

Rich and creamy coffee cheesecake brings a delightful twist to classic dessert lovers everywhere.

Smooth cream cheese blends perfectly with bold espresso notes for an irresistible treat.

Dark roasted beans infuse unexpected depth into each silky slice.

Café enthusiasts will appreciate this decadent fusion of traditional cheesecake and intense coffee flavors.

Subtle hints of vanilla complement the robust coffee undertones, creating a sophisticated dessert experience.

Sweet and slightly bitter elements dance together in perfect harmony.

You can craft this impressive confection that promises to wow even the most discerning palates.

Reasons to Enjoy Coffee Cheesecake

  • Savor Gourmet Flavor: This coffee cheesecake delivers a rich, sophisticated taste that transforms an ordinary dessert into a cafe-style indulgence with its deep espresso notes and creamy texture.
  • Master Beginner-Friendly Baking: The recipe requires basic mixing and baking skills, making it perfect for home bakers wanting to explore cheesecake creation without complex techniques or professional equipment.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for dinner parties, potlucks, and family gatherings, this dessert appeals to coffee lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts with its smooth, decadent profile that impresses guests and satisfies sweet cravings.
  • Simple Ingredient Lineup: Utilizing common kitchen staples like cream cheese, graham crackers, and eggs, this recipe eliminates the need for specialty ingredients, ensuring accessibility and convenience for home cooks.

Ingredients Needed for Coffee Cheesecake

Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic cookie base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Butter, Melted: Helps bind the crumbs together and creates a rich, solid crust.
Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The main component that gives the cheesecake its signature smooth and creamy texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the rich cream cheese flavor.
  • Espresso Powder: Brings a deep, intense coffee flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake filling together.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and contributes to the creamy, smooth consistency of the cheesecake.
Optional Garnish:
  • Whipped Cream, Coffee Beans: Can be used for decorative and additional flavor purposes.

How to Make Coffee Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

Crank up your oven to a cozy 325°F (160°C). Grab a springform pan and give it a light spray of cooking oil to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Crust

Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until they stick together like best friends. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Cream Cheese Base

In a spacious mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until it becomes silky smooth. Add sugar and continue mixing until the texture is creamy and dreamy with no lumps.

Step 4: Infuse Coffee Flavor

Dissolve espresso powder in hot water, creating a concentrated coffee essence. Pour this into the cream cheese mixture along with vanilla extract. Stir until the coffee swirls beautifully throughout the batter.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, gently folding them into the mixture. Mix just until combined – we want a smooth texture, not a tough cheesecake.

Step 6: Blend Sour Cream

Fold in sour cream, stirring until the batter becomes wonderfully luxurious and uniform.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter over the graham cracker crust. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. The center should look set but still have a gentle jiggle.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the cheesecake firm up and develop incredible flavor.

Pro Tips for Coffee Cheesecake

  • Brew Perfectly: Use high-quality espresso powder for a rich, intense coffee flavor that elevates the entire cheesecake.
  • Prevent Cracks: Avoid overmixing eggs and bake in a water bath to create a smooth, crack-free surface.
  • Crust Consistency: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to create a solid, compact base that won't crumble.
  • Chill Thoroughly: Allow cheesecake to rest in the refrigerator for minimum 4 hours to develop deep flavors and achieve perfect texture.
  • Room Temperature Trick: Bring cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky, lump-free batter.

Variation Suggestions for Coffee Cheesecake

  • Mocha Chocolate Variation: Replace vanilla extract with chocolate syrup and sprinkle cocoa powder on top for a rich mocha flavor profile.
  • Caramel Espresso Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cheesecake and mix caramel bits into the cream cheese batter for added sweetness.
  • Gluten-Free Coffee Option: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to create a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Coffee Cheesecake: Use cashew cream cheese, coconut cream, and plant-based eggs as dairy-free alternatives while maintaining the classic coffee essence.

Pairing Ideas for Coffee Cheesecake

  • Pair Coffee-Infused Flavor Companions: Creamy dark chocolate truffles create a luxurious complement, echoing the rich espresso undertones in the cheesecake.
  • Enhance Coffee Beverage Harmony: Serve alongside a smooth cold brew or cappuccino to amplify the coffee notes and provide a delightful temperature contrast.
  • Elevate Dessert Texture Balance: Sprinkle toasted almond slivers or crushed hazelnut praline on top for a crunchy counterpoint to the smooth, velvety cheesecake texture.
  • Craft Complementary Flavor Accent: Drizzle salted caramel sauce around the plate to introduce a sweet-salty dimension that beautifully highlights the coffee's deep, complex profile.

Storage Tips for Coffee Cheesecake

  • Store covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Prevent condensation by placing a paper towel over the cheesecake before sealing.
  • Wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Warm individual slices briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds at 50% power to maintain texture. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out.
  • Let chilled cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to soften and enhance flavor.

FAQs for Coffee Cheesecake

  • Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, you can substitute instant coffee, but espresso powder provides a more intense coffee flavor. Use about 2 teaspoons of instant coffee dissolved in hot water.

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, don’t overbake, and use a water bath method. Bake the cheesecake at a lower temperature and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.

  • Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan is ideal because it allows easy removal without damaging the cheesecake. If you don’t have one, use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but removal might be trickier.

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Coffee Cheesecake Recipe

Coffee Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: Approximately 5 hours (including cooling and refrigeration)
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Creamy coffee cheesecake delivers a luxurious blend of rich espresso and smooth cream cheese that dances across taste buds. Silky layers of indulgence promise coffee lovers a sophisticated dessert experience perfect for any celebratory moment.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 24 ounces (680 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup (200 grams) sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) melted butter

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 325F (160C) and position the rack in the center.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, then firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even base.
  3. Using an electric mixer, cream the cream cheese and sugar until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
  4. Dissolve espresso powder in hot water, then blend into the cream cheese mixture along with vanilla extract, ensuring a uniform coffee-infused base.
  5. Incorporate eggs individually into the mixture, gently mixing after each addition to maintain a smooth texture.
  6. Fold in sour cream, stirring until completely integrated and creating a luxurious, creamy batter.
  7. Carefully transfer the batter over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula to eliminate air pockets.
  8. Bake for 50-55 minutes, watching for a set center with a slight wobble when gently shaken.
  9. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature to prevent cracking.
  10. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to firm and develop rich flavors.

Notes

  • Brew the espresso powder in hot water just before adding to ensure maximum coffee flavor intensity and avoid bitter undertones.
  • Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to create a smoother, lump-free batter that blends effortlessly.
  • Wrap the springform pan’s exterior with aluminum foil to prevent water seepage during baking and maintain a perfectly consistent texture.
  • Prevent surface cracking by placing a shallow pan of water on the bottom oven rack during baking, which creates a humid environment and helps the cheesecake cook evenly.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 480kcal
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 37g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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