Creamy Coffee Cheesecake

There’s something truly special about the combination of coffee and cheesecake. The bold, slightly bitter notes of coffee pair beautifully with the creamy richness of cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both indulgent and deeply satisfying. This Creamy Coffee Cheesecake is perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy a velvety, smooth texture with a hint of espresso in every bite.

Whether you’re serving this for a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or just because you need a little sweet treat with your afternoon coffee, this cheesecake is sure to impress. The best part? You don’t need to be an expert baker to pull it off! With a simple crust, a rich coffee-infused filling, and a smooth, decadent texture, this cheesecake is a guaranteed showstopper.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a little coffeehouse magic into your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Coffee Lovers – If you love the taste of coffee, this dessert brings out the best of it in a creamy, dreamy form.
• Rich and Decadent – The combination of cream cheese, sugar, and espresso creates an incredibly smooth and luscious texture.
• No-Fail Instructions – Even if you’ve never made a cheesecake before, these step-by-step instructions will guide you to success.
• Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a family gathering, a special celebration, or just a personal indulgence, this cheesecake is always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Coffee Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water

For the Topping (Optional):

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

How to Make Creamy Coffee Cheesecake

Making a cheesecake from scratch might sound intimidating, but I promise it’s easier than it looks. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious coffee cheesecake in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Make the crust – In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press into the pan – Pour the crust mixture into the prepared springform pan and press it down firmly into an even layer using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Coffee Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add vanilla and cornstarch – Mix in the vanilla extract and cornstarch, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
3. Add sour cream and heavy cream – Beat in the sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Dissolve the espresso powder in 2 tablespoons of hot water and stir it into the batter. This will give the cheesecake its deep coffee flavor.
5. Add the eggs – One at a time, add the eggs, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can create air bubbles that may cause the cheesecake to crack.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Prepare a water bath – Wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the pan. This helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks.
2. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks.
4. Chill the cheesecake – Once the cheesecake is at room temperature, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to let the flavors fully develop.

Step 4: Make the Topping (Optional)

1. Whip the cream – In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Decorate the cheesecake – Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cheesecake and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a final touch.

Helpful Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Eggs – Overbeating the eggs can add too much air to the batter, which may cause cracks.
• Water Bath is Key – It helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks from forming on the surface.
• Chill Overnight for Best Results – The flavors develop beautifully when given time to rest in the fridge.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Chilling Time: 4-6 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: About 6 hours
• Yield: 8-10 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• Adjusting Coffee Strength – If you prefer a milder coffee flavor, reduce the amount of espresso powder to 1 tablespoon. For a bolder taste, you can add up to 3 tablespoons.
• Crust Variations – While graham crackers are classic, you can also use crushed chocolate cookies or digestive biscuits for a different flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option – This cheesecake actually tastes better the next day! Prepare it a day in advance and let it chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.
• Preventing a Soggy Crust – If you’re using a water bath, wrap the bottom of your springform pan tightly with two layers of aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping into the crust.
• No Springform Pan? No Problem! – If you don’t have a springform pan, use a deep 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper. Just be extra careful when removing the cheesecake.
• Serving Tip – For the cleanest slices, dip a sharp knife in warm water and wipe it clean between each cut.
• Topping Ideas – In addition to whipped cream and chocolate shavings, try drizzling caramel sauce or a dusting of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the cheesecake (without the whipped topping) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Freshly Brewed Coffee Instead of Instant Espresso?

Yes! Just make sure to use a strong coffee so the flavor comes through. Reduce the liquid slightly to maintain the cheesecake’s creamy texture.

Why Did My Cheesecake Crack?

Cracks usually happen if the cheesecake cools too quickly or if the eggs were overmixed. Using a water bath and allowing slow cooling in the oven helps prevent this.

Can I Make This Cheesecake Without a Springform Pan?

A springform pan is best because it makes removing the cheesecake easier. However, you can use a deep pie dish or cake pan lined with parchment paper; just be mindful when slicing and serving.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Creamy Coffee Cheesecake, you might also enjoy:

• Triple Lemon Meringue Cheesecake
• Tiramisu Cheesecake – A Heavenly Fusion of Two Classics
• Decadent Espresso Cheesecake – A Coffee Lover’s Dream
• Decadent Chocolate Tiramisu

Conclusion

This Creamy Coffee Cheesecake is a dream dessert for any coffee lover. With its silky texture, rich coffee flavor, and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cheesecake is worth every bite.

Print