Chocolate-Crusted Vanilla Custard Cheesecake

Chocolate-Crusted Vanilla Custard Cheesecake

This elegant, silky dessert is what happens when a creamy vanilla custard meets a rich chocolate base and a glossy caramel sauce. Topped with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s the kind of cheesecake that steals the show at any gathering. Smooth, decadent, and surprisingly simple to make this one is a keeper! 

🧾 Ingredients

• For the Chocolate Crust

• 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp melted unsalted butter

• For the Vanilla Custard Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Caramel Plate (optional but stunning!)
• ½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• For Garnish

• Fresh raspberries
• Fresh mint sprigs
• Powdered sugar for dusting

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

2. Mix the chocolate crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.

4. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

2️⃣ Make the Custard Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid incorporating too much air.

3. Whisk in the heavy cream, milk, cornstarch, and vanilla until silky and well combined.

4. Pour the mixture over the cooled chocolate crust.

3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and pour hot water halfway up the sides for a gentle water bath.

2. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center jiggles slightly but the edges are set.

3. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour to prevent cracks.

4. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4️⃣ Serve Like a Pro

1. Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce onto your serving plate.

2. Place a slice of cheesecake on top.

3. Garnish with raspberries, mint, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.

4. Snap the perfect photo and enjoy your masterpiece! 😍

📌 Chef’s Tips

✨ For an even richer flavor, chill the cheesecake overnight—trust me, it’s worth the wait.

✨ Use high-quality vanilla for the best custard flavor.

✨ Raspberries can be swapped for strawberries, blueberries, or even chocolate curls.