When my sweet tooth starts calling, there’s one dessert that always comes to mind: Nutella Cheesecake. The first time I whipped this silky creation up in my kitchen, I was mesmerized by the way the rich scent of chocolate and hazelnut filled the air as it baked. It’s a dessert that doesn’t just taste decadent—it feels like a warm embrace, ready to satisfy cravings and impress friends.
This no-bake option combines the velvety texture of cream cheese with a generous swirl of Nutella, crafting a dessert so luscious that each bite melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting dinner guests, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cheesecake will elevate any occasion. Get ready to indulge in a slice of heaven that tastes like it’s straight from a gourmet bakery—your taste buds are in for a real treat!
Why is this Nutella Cheesecake irresistible?
Decadence at its finest: With a generous amount of Nutella blended into creamy filling, every bite is sinfully delicious.
No-bake convenience: Perfect for those who want a quick and easy dessert without turning on the oven.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a birthday party or a family dinner, this cheesecake is sure to impress guests of all ages.
Versatile options: Customize with toppings like whipped cream or a sprinkle of hazelnuts for added texture and flavor.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare in advance to ease hosting stress—this cheesecake actually tastes better after a day in the fridge! Treat yourself with this delightful dessert that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!
Nutella Cheesecake Ingredients
For the Crust
• Chocolate Sandwich Cookies – crushed into crumbs to create a rich chocolate base.
• Unsalted Butter – melts to bind the cookie crumbs together for a sturdy crust.
For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – the key to achieving that creamy texture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – adds sweetness; feel free to reduce for a less sweet cheesecake.
• Nutella – the star ingredient, giving the cheesecake its decadent chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – enhances the overall richness in every bite.
• Salt – balances sweetness and elevates the flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream – used to add richness and a smooth texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for best results.
• Large Eggs – bind the ingredients and provide structure; be sure they’re also at room temperature.
For the Glaze
• Heavy Cream – heated until simmering and combined with Nutella to create a glossy topping that adds extra indulgence.
Now that you have all the essentials, you’re one step closer to creating this mouthwatering Nutella Cheesecake that will have everyone craving more!
How to Make Nutella Cheesecake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. Begin by mixing crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted unsalted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form a solid crust. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool completely.
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Lower the oven temperature to 300°F. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until creamy and smooth. Stir in Nutella, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for a delicious flavor boost.
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Incorporate heavy cream slowly into the mixture, blending until it’s completely mixed in. Gently fold in room-temperature eggs until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
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Pour the rich filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Place the pan inside a roasting pan filled with water—this water bath method helps prevent cracks during baking. Bake for 1 hour, or until the edges are firm and the center jiggles slightly.
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Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for an additional hour. Once done, allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating overnight for the best texture.
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Prepare the glaze by heating heavy cream until it simmers, then stir in Nutella until you achieve a smooth, glossy sauce. Pour this luxurious glaze over the chilled cheesecake and return it to the refrigerator until set.
Optional: Top with whipped cream and crushed hazelnuts for an extra touch of decadence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Nutella Cheesecake creations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to make life a little easier! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the crust in an airtight container at room temperature while refrigerating the cheesecake filling. Once you’re ready to bake, pour the filling over the cooled crust and continue with the baking instructions. For even more flexibility, you can make the cheesecake entirely and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before serving; it will taste just as delicious! Just remember to let it chill overnight to ensure a perfect texture. This way, when your guests arrive or a sweet craving hits, you can quickly finish with the glaze and enjoy your scrumptious dessert!
Nutella Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to get creative with your cheesecake by exploring these delicious variations! Your taste buds will thank you.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust to enjoy this treat without gluten.
- Reduced-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute in place of granulated sugar for a lighter version, without sacrificing flavor. The result is still deliciously satisfying!
- Nut-Free: Replace Nutella with sunflower seed butter or a chocolate hazelnut spread that’s nut-free, allowing everyone to join in the fun.
- Coffee Infusion: Add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the filling for a delightful mocha twist. This pairs exquisitely with the chocolate!
- Cocoa Dusting: Top with a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for an elegant touch and extra chocolate flavor. It’s a simple way to elevate presentation!
- Fruit Surprise: Incorporate pureed strawberries or raspberries into the filling for a fruity burst that complements the richness of the Nutella. Serve with fresh berries for a colorful touch.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Add a generous layer of stabilized whipped cream on top for extra fluffiness and a beautiful finish; this adds a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
- Hazelnut Crunch: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top for added texture and a nutty crunch, bringing an extra dimension to every bite.
What to Serve with Nutella Cheesecake?
Indulge in a delightful meal paired with vibrant flavors and textures that complement your creamy dessert delight.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries and raspberries add a refreshing tartness that beautifully contrasts the rich sweetness of Nutella. A sprinkle of powdered sugar enhances the presentation for an elegant touch.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream provides a soft contrast to the dense cheesecake, making every bite feel luxurious. Consider adding a hint of vanilla for an extra flavor boost!
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold, robust flavors of coffee pair wonderfully with Nutella cheesecake, awakening your palate and enhancing the chocolate hazelnut experience. Try a mocha for a double chocolate treat!
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce over each slice intensifies the chocolate experience and makes for a visually stunning presentation. This is a chocolate lover’s dream come true!
- Nutty Granola: A crunchy nutty granola offers a delightful textural contrast. It adds crunch to every slice, making for an exciting bite with a perfect balance of flavors.
- Mint Tea: Fresh mint tea served warm or iced brings a soothing finish to your decadent dessert, cleansing the palate while adding a subtle herbal note to the experience.
- Hazelnut Liqueur: For an adult twist, serve your cheesecake with a shot of hazelnut liqueur. It elevates the flavors and turns dessert into a classy after-dinner treat!
- Chocolate Shavings: Garnish each slice with chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. This adds a slight bitterness to complement the sweetness and makes your dessert look absolutely irresistible!
Expert Tips for Nutella Cheesecake
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Water Bath Magic: Always use a water bath to bake your cheesecake. This technique helps prevent cracking and retains moisture for that ultimate creamy texture.
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Quality Counts: Choose full-fat cream cheese for a rich and velvety filling. Lower-fat options may affect the desired creamy consistency of your Nutella cheesecake.
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Room Temp Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, heavy cream, and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
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Chill Time: Be patient! Refrigerating your cheesecake overnight is crucial. It allows the flavors to meld and helps achieve the right texture.
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Slicing Tip: For cleaner slices, use a sharp knife and briefly warm it under hot water. Dry the knife between cuts to keep each slice looking beautiful!
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Cheesecake
Room Temperature: This decadent cheesecake is best served cold, so avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to maintain its fresh taste and texture.
Fridge: Keep your Nutella cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use plastic wrap or an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors.
Freezer: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating: If desired, allow the cheesecake to come to room temperature before enjoying it. This enhances the creamy, luscious texture that makes each bite unforgettable.
Nutella Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my Nutella Cheesecake?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for full-fat cream cheese, as it provides the richest texture. Inspect your chocolate sandwich cookies for freshness—avoid any packages with visible damage or stale crumbs. Ensure your eggs are large and at room temperature for the best binding. Fresh vanilla extract enhances the flavor, so use a high-quality brand for optimal results.
How should I store my Nutella Cheesecake after baking?
Very simply! Cover your Nutella cheesecake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Be careful to avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Nutella Cheesecake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Nutella cheesecake, make sure it has completely cooled and set. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to thaw overnight; this way, it will retain that delicious creamy texture.
What if my cheesecake cracks during baking?
Not to worry, cracking can happen! To minimize this, always use a water bath for baking, which helps maintain moisture. If cracks do appear, you can cover them with a luscious chocolate glaze or a dollop of whipped cream to mask any imperfections. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time—over-baking can also cause cracking, so ensure the center is slightly jiggly when you remove it.
Is Nutella Cheesecake safe for people with allergies?
It’s important to note that this Nutella cheesecake contains dairy, eggs, and gluten (from the chocolate cookies). If you’re serving guests with specific allergies, be sure to inform them about these ingredients. You can adjust the recipe using gluten-free cookies and vegan cream cheese options to accommodate different dietary needs. Always check the labels of Nutella for allergens as well, as some brands may contain traces of nuts or other allergens.
Indulge in Creamy Nutella Cheesecake – No-Bake Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted unsalted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form a solid crust. Bake for 10 minutes and let it cool completely.
- Lower the oven temperature to 300°F. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until creamy and smooth. Stir in Nutella, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Incorporate heavy cream slowly into the mixture, blending until completely mixed in. Gently fold in room-temperature eggs until just combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Place the pan inside a roasting pan filled with water. Bake for 1 hour, or until edges are firm and the center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside for an additional hour. Cool to room temperature before refrigerating overnight.
- Prepare the glaze by heating heavy cream until simmering, then stir in Nutella until smooth. Pour this over the chilled cheesecake and refrigerate until set.