Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Recipe: Your Favorite Dessert!

There’s something truly magical about serving a dessert that makes everyone pause, savor, and smile. That’s exactly what happened the first time I made this chocolate hazelnut cheesecake recipe for a family gathering. The rich, creamy layers of chocolate and hazelnut, combined with a perfectly crisp cookie crust, left everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe!

This cheesecake is luxurious yet surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a dinner party, or a cozy family dessert, it’s the kind of treat that turns an ordinary day into something extraordinary. Trust me, this one’s worth a try.

What Makes My Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Recipe Unique?

While there are countless chocolate cheesecake recipes, this one stands out for its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The base is a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, layered with a velvety hazelnut cream cheese filling, and topped with a glossy, dark chocolate ganache.

What sets this recipe apart is the addition of a subtle vanilla whipped cream topping, which balances the richness perfectly. I also include crushed hazelnuts for a bit of crunch and a drizzle of Nutella ganache for that extra indulgence. If you love Ferrero Rocher cheesecake bars or crave a dessert reminiscent of your favorite hazelnut spread, this recipe will not disappoint.

Ingredients List For Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Recipe

For the Chocolate Cookie Crust:

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (use halal-certified cookies)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp sugar

For the Hazelnut Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese (softened, halal-certified)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache:

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

For Toppings:

• 1 cup whipped cream (halal-certified)
• ¼ cup crushed hazelnuts
• Drizzle of Nutella ganache

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegan chocolate cheesecake: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and vegan chocolate for the ganache.
• Gluten-free crust: Substitute regular cookie crumbs with gluten-free chocolate cookies.
• Lighter version: Swap out heavy cream for low-fat cream and reduce the sugar slightly in the filling.
• No-bake option: Skip the eggs and bake step; simply chill the crust and filling in the refrigerator for 4–6 hours. This variation transforms the recipe into a creamy no-bake Nutella cheesecake.

Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the base of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out evenly.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes and allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Hazelnut Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the hazelnut spread, and mix until fully incorporated.
3. One at a time, add the eggs, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven, leave the door slightly ajar, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

Step 4: Prepare the Dark Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
3. Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake and spread evenly.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Chill

1. Spread or pipe vanilla whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake.
2. Sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts and drizzle with Nutella ganache.
3. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake

1. Overmixing the batter: This can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
2. Skipping the water bath: If you’re prone to cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath for even heat distribution.
3. Using cold ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.

Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Serving and Presentation Tips

Elevate your cheesecake’s presentation by using a cake stand and decorating the edges with Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Add a light dusting of cocoa powder or grated chocolate for a professional touch. For an extra-special occasion, slice it alongside a glass of cold brew coffee or dark chocolate tart for a dessert pairing your guests will love.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a warm espresso or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a complete dessert spread, serve it alongside other Italian recipes desserts like tiramisu or cannoli.

Extra Recipe Tips For Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake

• Prepare the cheesecake a day ahead for the flavors to deepen.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a store-bought crust for this recipe?
A: Yes, but making your own chocolate cookie crust adds a fresher taste.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust to make it gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, use plant-based cream cheese, coconut cream, and dairy-free chocolate.

Final Thoughts

This chocolate hazelnut cheesecake recipe is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves indulgent flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re a fan of Nutella cheesecake recipes or just looking for a decadent centerpiece for your next celebration, this dessert is sure to impress.

Take the time to try this recipe, and you’ll discover why it’s one of the best delicious cheesecake recipes you’ll ever make. Happy baking!