Instant Pot Chocolate Cheesecake

by

Instant Pot Chocolate Cheesecake

Indulge in a rich, velvety chocolate cheesecake with a luscious ganache topping, all made effortlessly in the Instant Pot. This creamy dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers who crave a smooth and decadent treat. The combination of a crunchy cookie crust, a silky chocolate cheesecake filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache makes this dessert truly irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Instant Pot Chocolate Cheesecake is sure to impress!

A Brief History of Cheesecake

Cheesecake has been enjoyed for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece, where it was offered to athletes during the first Olympic games. Over time, this dessert evolved as different cultures added their own twists. The New York-style cheesecake became famous for its dense and creamy texture, while variations like Japanese cotton cheesecake and Italian ricotta cheesecake gained popularity worldwide.

Chocolate cheesecake, a more modern invention, emerged as chocolatiers and bakers experimented with incorporating cocoa and melted chocolate into traditional cheesecake recipes. The Instant Pot revolutionized cheesecake-making by providing a foolproof way to achieve a perfectly smooth, crack-free texture through steam pressure cooking.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreos or graham crackers)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • ½ cup melted dark chocolate
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Ganache Topping:

  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped

For the Chocolate Whipped Cream: (Optional)

  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass.
  3. Freeze the crust for 10-15 minutes while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add sugar and cocoa powder, then mix until well combined.
  3. Pour in the melted chocolate and mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Add sour cream, eggs (one at a time), and vanilla extract. Mix gently until smooth—avoid overmixing to prevent air bubbles.
  5. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Cheesecake

  1. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
  2. Cover the cheesecake pan with foil to prevent condensation from dripping in.
  3. Place the pan on the trivet and seal the Instant Pot lid.
  4. Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) mode for 35 minutes on high pressure.
  5. Let the pressure naturally release for 15 minutes before opening the lid.
  6. Carefully remove the cheesecake and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

Step 4: Prepare the Ganache

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until just simmering.
  2. Pour over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute.
  3. Stir until smooth and glossy.
  4. Pour over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Whipped Cream (Optional)

  1. Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder together until soft peaks form.
  2. Pipe or dollop onto the cheesecake for extra decadence.

Formation of Chocolate Cheesecake Lovers

Chocolate cheesecake lovers are a unique group of dessert enthusiasts who appreciate the perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor and creamy cheesecake texture. These individuals often have a refined taste for rich, luxurious desserts and enjoy experimenting with different types of chocolate—dark, milk, and even white—to create their perfect cheesecake experience. Some enjoy their cheesecake plain, while others go all out with toppings like chocolate curls, caramel drizzle, or even fresh berries.

Social media platforms and dessert communities bring chocolate cheesecake lovers together to share recipes, tips, and drool-worthy photos. Whether it’s a home baker perfecting their craft or a professional pastry chef creating gourmet versions, chocolate cheesecake has a special place in the hearts of many.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Chocolate Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate lover. The Instant Pot method ensures a perfectly smooth and creamy texture without cracks, while the ganache topping adds an extra layer of decadence. Whether you’re making this for a celebration, a date night, or just because, this dessert will leave everyone asking for another slice.

So, if you love chocolate and cheesecake, why not combine the best of both worlds and treat yourself to this heavenly dessert? Happy baking!

Leave a Comment