If you are a coffee lover and a dessert enthusiast, this Coffee Cheesecake is going to steal your heart. Imagine a rich, creamy cheesecake infused with the bold flavor of coffee, resting on a buttery, crisp crust, and topped with a luscious coffee-flavored whipped cream. Each bite is indulgent, smooth, and perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of coffee kick to awaken your senses. Trust me, this cheesecake is elegant, decadent, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
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Recipe Origin
Coffee-flavored desserts have long been a favorite in cafes and home kitchens alike. This Coffee Cheesecake blends classic creamy cheesecake with the bold, aromatic essence of coffee, making it a modern favorite for dessert lovers who want sophistication and comfort in one slice.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Springform Pan: For easy cheesecake removal and serving.
Mixing Bowls: One for the crust and one for the cheesecake filling.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: To beat cream cheese and create a smooth, creamy filling.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in both crust and filling.
Spatula: For folding ingredients and smoothing the cheesecake.
Saucepan or Small Bowl: To dissolve instant coffee for the filling and whipped cream.
Electric Whisk or Hand Mixer: For whipping the coffee cream topping.
Serving Plate or Cake Stand: To present your cheesecake beautifully.
Why You Will Love Coffee Cheesecake
This cheesecake is indulgent yet approachable, perfect for any occasion:
Versatile: Ideal for dinner parties, special occasions, or a weekend treat.
Crowd-Pleasing: Coffee and chocolate lovers alike will be impressed by this rich, creamy dessert.
Elegant Yet Simple: Looks like a dessert from a high-end bakery but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Rich and Creamy: Smooth cheesecake filling with the perfect balance of coffee flavor and sweetness.
Customizable: Garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans, cocoa powder, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Helps achieve a perfectly smooth cheesecake filling.
Dissolve Instant Coffee Fully: Mix coffee crystals with water to avoid gritty spots in your cheesecake or whipped cream.
Do Not Overmix Eggs: Beat just until combined to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
Cool Gradually: Let cheesecake cool in the oven for a few minutes with the door slightly ajar to avoid sudden temperature changes that can crack the surface.
Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate for several hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what makes this Coffee Cheesecake so irresistible. Every element contributes to flavor, texture, or presentation.
Crust Ingredients
Graham Crackers: Provide a buttery, crunchy base for the cheesecake.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the crust lightly.
Butter: Melted to bind the crumbs together and create a firm, golden crust.
Cheesecake Ingredients
Cream Cheese: The creamy, rich base that makes the cheesecake indulgent.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the coffee flavor.
Instant Coffee Crystals: Infuse the cheesecake with bold coffee flavor.
Water: Dissolves coffee crystals for even distribution in the filling.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang, balancing the sweetness.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smooth texture to the cheesecake.
Coffee Whipped Cream Ingredients
Heavy Cream: Whipped to soft peaks for a light, airy topping.
Instant Coffee: Adds bold coffee flavor to the whipped cream.
Cold Water: Dissolves the coffee crystals.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens whipped cream smoothly.
Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans: Optional garnish for a touch of elegance and crunch.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a perfectly creamy and flavorful Coffee Cheesecake.
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper temperature ensures even baking without cracks.
Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until combined. Dissolve instant coffee in water and add to the mixture. Beat in eggs one at a time, then fold in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 15 minutes.
Cool Completely: Remove from oven, run a knife around the edge, and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Prepare the Coffee Whipped Cream: Dissolve instant coffee in cold water. Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add powdered sugar and coffee mixture. Continue whipping until smooth, airy, and slightly firm.
Assemble and Garnish: Spread or pipe coffee whipped cream on top of the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans for a professional touch.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve chilled. Every bite is creamy, rich, and perfectly coffee-flavored.
Nutrition Facts
Servings:
Calories per serving:
Preparation Time Prep Time:
Cook Time:
Total Time:
How to Serve Coffee Cheesecake
This cheesecake shines as a centerpiece dessert but pairs beautifully with:
Espresso or Coffee: Enhances the coffee flavor of the cheesecake.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle for extra indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Adds color and a slight tartness that balances richness.
Whipped Cream Dollop: Even more creamy delight for coffee lovers.
Presentation matters. Place on a cake stand, garnish with espresso beans, and slice neatly for a gorgeous, elegant dessert.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Prep Ahead: Make the cheesecake a day in advance and refrigerate overnight.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freeze for Later: Cheesecake layers freeze well without topping. Freeze and thaw before adding whipped cream.
Double the Batch: This cheesecake also works well for larger gatherings or celebrations.
Variations to Try
Add a chocolate swirl in the cheesecake batter for extra richness. Use flavored syrups, such as caramel or hazelnut, in the whipped cream. Top with shaved chocolate or cocoa powder for a sophisticated finish.
Additional Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smooth, lump-free batter.
Avoid Overbaking: Prevent cracks and dense texture by monitoring the center; it should still jiggle slightly.
Whip Cream Just Right: Over-whipping can make it grainy; stop when soft peaks form.
Decorate Creatively: Dust cocoa powder, add chocolate curls, or a few coffee beans for a stunning presentation.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use decaf coffee?
A1: Yes, decaf works perfectly if you want the flavor without caffeine.
Q2: Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
A2: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Q3: Can I use whipped cream from a can?
A3: Freshly whipped cream gives the best flavor and texture, but canned works in a pinch.
Q4: How long does this cheesecake last?
A4: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q5: Can I freeze the whipped cream topping?
A5: Not recommended. Freeze cheesecake without topping and add whipped cream after thawing.
Q6: Can I make mini cheesecakes?
A6: Yes, use muffin tins and adjust baking time accordingly.
Q7: Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
A7: Yes, they add a delicious chocolate surprise in each bite.
Q8: Can I use a different coffee flavor?
A8: Flavored instant coffee, such as mocha or hazelnut, works wonderfully.
Q9: Can I make this vegan?
A9: Substitute cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives.
Q10: Can I use store-bought crust?
A10: Yes, a pre-made graham cracker crust works well and saves time.
Conclusion
Coffee Cheesecake is a decadent, elegant dessert that combines rich creaminess with bold coffee flavor. Perfect for coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, this cheesecake is creamy, smooth, and beautifully presented with a coffee whipped cream topping and chocolate-covered espresso beans. Easy to make yet impressive to serve, it’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply treating yourself. Each slice is a little celebration of flavor, texture, and sophistication, and you will love every decadent bite.
Print
Coffee Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Coffee Cheesecake is a creamy, rich dessert featuring a buttery crust, smooth coffee-flavored cheesecake filling, and topped with coffee whipped cream and chocolate-covered espresso beans for a decadent finish.
Ingredients
- Crust: 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted
- Coffee Cheesecake: 24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee crystals
- 2 teaspoons water
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Coffee Whipped Cream: 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon cold water
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 12 chocolate-covered espresso beans, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing or lining with parchment paper.
- Make the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the pan and set aside.
- In a small bowl, dissolve instant coffee crystals in 2 teaspoons of water.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add dissolved coffee and mix well.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition. Fold in sour cream and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Pour cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the center is almost set.
- Turn off oven and let cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the coffee whipped cream, beat heavy cream with instant coffee, cold water, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Pipe or spread whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake.
- Adjust coffee strength by adding more or less instant coffee.
- Cheesecake can be made a day ahead for easier serving and enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg