Posted by Indulge in a decadent slice of this Italian Amaretto Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake, a dream dessert for chocolate lovers. This cheesecake is rich, smooth, and bursting with silky chocolate flavors, making it a show-stopping treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: A simple recipe with a rich and creamy filling.
- Customizable Crust: Choose chocolate or vanilla cookie crumbs to suit your preference.
- Versatile Toppings: Serve it plain, with fresh raspberries, a dollop of whipped cream, or an indulgent chocolate Amaretto ganache.
This indulgent Italian Amaretto Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake features a luscious chocolate filling infused with Amaretto and a rich chocolate crumb crust.
Yield: 12 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreos, chocolate graham crackers, almond-flavored cookies, coconut-flavored cookies, vanilla wafers, or Lorna Doones)
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp butter, melted and slightly cooled
For the Filling
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, well-drained
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tbsp Amaretto liqueur (or substitute almond extract)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Amaretto Chocolate Ganache (Optional)
- 9 oz dark or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Amaretto liqueur (or substitute almond extract)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9½-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, pulse the cookies into fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse until combined.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Prepare the Filling
- Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the ricotta, sour cream, cocoa powder, almond extract, and Amaretto until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, sugar, and flour. Beat for 3–4 minutes until well combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake the cheesecake at 325°F for 45–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 5 hours or overnight.
Make the Ganache (Optional)
- Place the chopped chocolate in a medium bowl.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Remove from heat immediately.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and whisk until smooth. Stir in the Amaretto or almond extract.
Serve
- Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Serve plain or with your favorite toppings:
- Drizzle with Amaretto chocolate ganache.
- Dust with powdered sugar and top with raspberries or fresh fruit.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Notes & Tips
- Alternative Crusts: Experiment with different cookie types for unique flavors.
- Chilling: For best results, chill the cheesecake overnight to enhance its texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
The addition of almond-flavored Amaretto elevates this cheesecake to a gourmet Italian-inspired dessert, perfect for dinner parties or special gatherings.
Serve:
- Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top with your favorite garnishes like whipped cream, ganache, or fresh fruit. Slice and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
- Smaller Portions: Use 6-inch springform pans for individual cheesecakes. These freeze well for up to 3 months.
- Crustless Option: Skip the crust and bake the filling directly in the pan for a lighter version.
- Freezing Instructions: Wrap tightly and freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Alternative Crust: Substitute graham crackers or vanilla wafers for the cookie crumbs.
Topping Suggestions
- Fruits: Blueberries, cherries, bananas, peaches, or pineapple.
- Candy: Crushed toffee bars, Snickers, or mini chocolate chips.
- Purees: Swirl fruit puree into the batter for added flavor.
- Funfetti: Add colorful sprinkles to the batter for a festive look.
- Turtle Style: Top with melted caramel, crushed toffee, and macadamia nuts.
Notes
This cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser and an elegant dessert that fits any occasion. Whether you make it for a special event or just because, it’s guaranteed to earn rave reviews.