WHY MAKE IT

A little comfort, a lot of flavor.

A chocolate cookie crust and silky coffee filling for a make-ahead dessert. This guide breaks the recipe into practical steps, with a few details that help you get the texture and timing right.

Before you start

Room-temperature dairy reduces lumps. Avoid whipping air into the filling; overmixing and overbaking can cause cracks.

THE RECIPE

Creamy Espresso Cheesecake

12 servings · 25 minutes preparation · 75 minutes cooking · 480 minutes cooling, chilling or resting

Ingredients

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line its base. Crush cookies finely, mix with butter, and press into the base. Bake for 10 minutes.
  2. Dissolve espresso in hot water and let cool. Beat cream cheese and sugar on low speed until smooth. Mix in sour cream, espresso, and vanilla.
  3. Add eggs one at a time on low speed, stopping once incorporated. Pour over the crust and tap gently to release bubbles.
  4. Place a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack and the cheesecake on the middle rack. Bake 55–65 minutes, until edges are set and the center gently wobbles.
  5. Turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and cool inside for 1 hour. Cool on a rack for no more than 1 hour, then refrigerate at least 6 hours before slicing.

Kitchen notes

Room-temperature dairy reduces lumps. Avoid whipping air into the filling; overmixing and overbaking can cause cracks.

Storage & make-ahead

Chill at least 6 hours beyond the listed preparation and bake time. Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days. Freeze individual slices for up to 1 month.

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An original recipe guide inspired by themes in our Pinterest research. Recipe has not been independently kitchen-tested. AI-generated image is illustrative; your finished dish may look different.