Rich Gluten-Free Dessert

Featured in Irresistible Desserts.

Luxurious gluten-free chocolate cheesecake combining semisweet and bittersweet chocolate with smooth cream cheese and sour cream.

Casey
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:11:12 GMT
A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with a fresh strawberry and chocolate squares on a white plate. Pin it
A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with a fresh strawberry and chocolate squares on a white plate. | cookingwithcasey.com

Let me tell you about my absolute favorite chocolate cheesecake recipe that just happens to be gluten free. I stumbled upon this version during countless kitchen experiments trying to create something special for my celiac friend. The result? Pure chocolate heaven that's so rich and creamy you won't even miss the crust.

More Than Just Chocolate

The magic of this cheesecake lies in its simplicity. Without a crust to worry about we can focus on creating the most incredible chocolate filling. Every time I serve this people are amazed it's gluten free. The texture is like velvet and the chocolate flavor just wraps around you like a warm hug.

The Perfect Ingredients

I've learned through many trials that quality ingredients make all the difference here. Two types of chocolate create incredible depth while room temperature cream cheese and fresh eggs ensure that silky smooth texture. I always splurge on good vanilla extract it's worth every penny.

My Secret Steps

Here's what I've discovered makes this recipe foolproof. Take your time letting those ingredients come to room temperature it's crucial for that perfect texture. I chop my chocolate nice and fine so it melts like a dream. And never skip the careful mixing steps each ingredient needs its moment to shine.

The Baking Magic

The water bath is your best friend here. I wrap my springform pan in foil and nestle it into hot water. This gentle heat creates the most incredible texture. When it's done I leave the oven door cracked with the cheesecake inside watching it slowly settle into perfection.

A rich chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries, displayed on a decorative cake stand with chocolate pieces nearby. Pin it
A rich chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries, displayed on a decorative cake stand with chocolate pieces nearby. | cookingwithcasey.com

Making It Special

Some days I keep it simple letting that chocolate shine on its own. Other times I dress it up with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate liqueur. My favorite way though? A dollop of whipped cream and a scatter of chocolate shavings pure bliss.

Keeping It Fresh

This cheesecake actually gets better after a day in the fridge. The flavors develop and deepen becoming even more incredible. I store mine in an airtight container and if by some miracle there are leftovers they freeze beautifully for future chocolate emergencies.

Troubleshooting Tips

I always test my springform pan for leaks first it's saved me so many headaches. If your pan isn't totally watertight a regular pie dish works wonderfully. And remember patience is key don't rush the mixing or the cooling.

Celebration Ready

This cheesecake has become my go to for special occasions. It's elegant enough for fancy dinner parties but feels right at home at casual gatherings too. The look on people's faces when they take that first bite makes all the effort worth it.

Everyone's Welcome

What I love most is how inclusive this dessert is. My gluten free friends feel special having a decadent dessert made just for them and everyone else just knows they're eating an amazing chocolate cheesecake. It's a win win situation.

A chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a glass cake stand. Pin it
A chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a glass cake stand. | cookingwithcasey.com

Make It Your Own

Don't be afraid to play with the flavors. Sometimes I swirl in raspberry puree or sprinkle sea salt on top. The base recipe is so solid you can really get creative with the variations. Each twist makes it feel like a brand new dessert.

The Story Behind It

This recipe started as a challenge to create something spectacular for my gluten free friends. It's evolved over countless bakes into something I'm truly proud of. Sometimes the best recipes come from pushing our boundaries and thinking differently.

Perfect Pairings

There's nothing quite like a slice of this cheesecake with a good cup of coffee or a glass of port. The rich chocolate flavors dance beautifully with both. On cozy nights I love serving it with homemade hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.

Essential Equipment

Your springform pan will become your best friend with this recipe. I've had mine for years and it's never let me down. A good electric mixer is crucial too for that perfectly smooth batter. These tools are worth investing in they'll serve you well.

Pure Indulgence

The texture of this cheesecake is something special. It's somehow both rich and light fluffy yet creamy. Each bite melts slowly filling your mouth with intense chocolate flavor. It's pure indulgence in the best possible way.

A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with a strawberry and a piece of chocolate, served on a white plate. Pin it
A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with a strawberry and a piece of chocolate, served on a white plate. | cookingwithcasey.com

Temperature Matters

The key to avoiding cracks is all about temperature control. Room temperature ingredients and that slow cooling process make all the difference. I love watching through the oven door as the cheesecake gently settles into perfection.

Sharing the Love

This cheesecake makes the most wonderful gift. I often bake it for friends' birthdays or as a thank you. Seeing their eyes light up when they take that first bite brings me so much joy. Food really is the best way to show someone you care.

Chocolate Adventures

Sometimes I experiment with different chocolate combinations. Dark chocolate for a more intense flavor milk chocolate for something sweeter. Each variation teaches me something new about this beloved recipe. The possibilities are endless.

Join Our Community

There's nothing better than seeing others fall in love with this recipe. When you make it share your photos and tell me about your experience. It's amazing how one recipe can bring so many people together in the joy of baking.

Your Baking Adventure

Now it's your turn to create this chocolate masterpiece. Take your time enjoy the process and most importantly have fun. Remember every great baker started somewhere and this recipe is the perfect place to begin your cheesecake journey.

A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a white plate. Pin it
A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a white plate. | cookingwithcasey.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why use water bath?

Ensures even cooking and prevents cracking by maintaining steady temperature.

→ Can I test for doneness?

Do not insert anything into cheesecake as it will cause cracking.

→ Why room temperature ingredients?

Room temperature cream cheese prevents lumps in batter.

→ How do I prevent water leaks?

Test springform pan first; use pie dish if needed as extra protection.

→ How should I store it?

Refrigerate uncovered overnight to prevent moisture on top, if possible.

Chocolate Cheesecake

A rich, creamy chocolate cheesecake that's naturally gluten-free. Made with two types of chocolate for perfect flavor.

Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
65 Minutes
Total Time
90 Minutes
By: Casey


Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: American

Yield: 16 Servings (1 10-inch cheesecake)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 40 ounces cream cheese.
02 6 large eggs.
03 8 ounces semisweet chocolate.
04 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate.
05 2 cups granulated sugar.
06 ¼ teaspoon salt.
07 2 teaspoons vanilla.
08 16 ounces sour cream.
09 Strawberries optional.

Instructions

Step 01

Soften cream cheese. Preheat to 400°F. Prepare water bath and springform pan.

Step 02

Beat cream cheese one block at a time until smooth. Add eggs one at a time.

Step 03

Melt chocolates. Add to batter with remaining ingredients. Beat 7 minutes.

Step 04

Bake in water bath 10 minutes at 400°F, then 45-55 minutes at 375°F.

Step 05

Let cool in oven 1 hour. Refrigerate overnight before cutting.

Notes

  1. Test springform for leaks.
  2. Don't cover if fridge odors not an issue.
  3. Freezes up to 3 weeks.

Tools You'll Need

  • 10-inch springform pan.
  • Roasting pan for water bath.
  • Mixer.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy.
  • Eggs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 590
  • Total Fat: 43 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 43 g
  • Protein: 4 g