Decadent Light Chocolate Cheesecake with Creamy Sour Cream Topping
Indulge in a delightful twist on classic cheesecake with this Decadent Light Chocolate Cheesecake. This rich and velvety dessert combines the creamy textures of ricotta and cottage cheese, with the deep flavors of cocoa, creating a guilt-free treat that satisfies any chocolate craving. The luscious sour cream topping adds an exquisite finishing touch, making this cake perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy at home. Share this lightened-up version of chocolate cheesecake with friends and family, and watch their faces light up with delight as they savor each bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ricotta cheese
8 ounces (softened)
2% fat cottage cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Granulated sugar
1 cup (divided)
Large egg
1 (beaten)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (pure)
Sifted unsweetened cocoa
1/4 cup (sifted)
All-purpose flour
1 tablespoon
Graham cracker crumbs or chocolate wafer crumbs
1 1/2 cups
Water
2 tablespoons
Margarine
1 tablespoon (melted)
Light sour cream
1 cup
Granulated sugar
2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray an 8-inch springform pan with non-stick vegetable spray to ensure easy release.
2
For the crust, combine the graham cracker or chocolate wafer crumbs with water and melted margarine in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly onto the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared springform pan. Place the pressed crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
3
In a food processor, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Next, add the sifted unsweetened cocoa and all-purpose flour, and process briefly until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4
Carefully pour the cheesecake filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle.
5
While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the topping by whisking together the light sour cream, additional granulated sugar, and remaining vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth.
6
Once the initial baking time is complete, remove the cheesecake from the oven and gently pour the sour cream mixture over the top, spreading it evenly. Return the cheesecake to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. The topping will still be slightly loose.
7
Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, until fully set.
8
Slice, serve, and enjoy your decadent yet light chocolate cheesecake with creamy sour cream topping!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of the Decadent Light Chocolate Cheesecake?
This cheesecake features deep cocoa flavors combined with the creamy textures of ricotta and cottage cheese, finished with a luscious sour cream topping.
Is this chocolate cheesecake considered a low-calorie or lighter option?
Yes, it is a lightened-up version of classic cheesecake that uses ricotta, cottage cheese, and light sour cream to create a guilt-free treat.
What types of cheese are used in the filling?
The filling uses 8 ounces of softened ricotta cheese and 8 ounces of softened 2% fat cottage cheese.
What size pan is required for this recipe?
You should use an 8-inch springform pan.
How should I prepare the springform pan before adding the crust?
Generously spray the 8-inch springform pan with non-stick vegetable spray to ensure easy release of the cake.
How do I make the crust for the cheesecake?
Combine graham cracker or chocolate wafer crumbs with water and melted margarine, then press firmly onto the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan.
Can I use chocolate wafer crumbs instead of graham crackers?
Yes, the recipe allows for either graham cracker crumbs or chocolate wafer crumbs for the crust.
Why is water added to the crust mixture?
Water is added to help bind the crumbs together with a minimal amount of melted margarine, keeping the recipe lighter.
Should the crust be chilled before adding the filling?
Yes, place the pressed crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
What appliance is recommended for mixing the cheese filling?
A food processor is recommended to blend the cheeses, sugar, egg, and vanilla until completely smooth and creamy.
How many eggs are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for one large egg, beaten.
Why is it important to sift the cocoa powder?
Sifting the unsweetened cocoa helps prevent lumps and ensures it incorporates evenly into the cheese mixture.
Is there flour in the cheesecake filling?
Yes, one tablespoon of all-purpose flour is added to the filling to help provide structure.
What is the oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the cheesecake bake during the first stage?
Bake the filling in the crust for about 30 minutes initially.
How do I know when the cheesecake is ready to be removed for the topping?
The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.
What ingredients are in the sour cream topping?
The topping consists of 1 cup of light sour cream, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
When is the sour cream topping added to the cake?
It is poured over the top after the initial 30 minutes of baking is complete.
How long do I bake the cheesecake after adding the topping?
Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Will the topping be firm immediately after the second bake?
No, the topping will still be slightly loose when you first remove it from the oven.
How should the cheesecake be cooled?
Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature on a counter before moving it to the refrigerator.
How long does the cheesecake need to chill before serving?
It should chill for at least 3 hours, although overnight is preferred to ensure it is fully set.
Is this recipe suitable for chocolate lovers?
Absolutely, the deep flavors of cocoa and the optional chocolate wafer crust make it perfect for chocolate cravings.
What kind of sugar is used in this recipe?
Granulated sugar is used in both the filling and the sour cream topping.
Can I use regular sour cream instead of light?
While the recipe specifies light sour cream to keep it decadent yet light, regular sour cream can be used as a substitute.
What type of vanilla extract is recommended?
Pure vanilla extract is suggested for the best flavor in both the filling and the topping.
What is the texture of the cheesecake filling?
The filling is rich, velvety, and smooth due to the combination of ricotta and cottage cheese processed on high speed.
Is the cocoa added before or after blending the cheeses?
The cocoa and flour are added after the cheeses, sugar, egg, and vanilla have been blended into a smooth mixture.
How should I store leftover cheesecake?
Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator, ideally covered to maintain freshness.
Can this recipe be served at holiday gatherings?
Yes, its decadent appearance and exquisite topping make it an excellent choice for special occasions and holidays.