Chocolate Cappuccino Cheesecake

I have never had coffee. I figure by now, it is one of those things it is best not to get hooked on. Saving the money and the calories. The coffee flavor in this cheesecake is detectable, but the rich chocolate is what really shines through. I was clueless when buying the espresso granules, but there was a cute small package that was priced right. I also have the most adorably small bottle of Kahlua ever.  I know I will make this cheesecake again, it was nearly as good as my mom's chocolate cheesecake. Nearly. Thanks to Tide and Thyme of the spectacular recipe.

Chocolate Cappuccino Cheesecake

1 cup Oreo crumbs
¼ cup butter, melted
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons whipping cream
3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 eggs
1 cup sour cream
¼ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons instant espresso granules dissolved in ¼ cup hot water
¼ cup Kahlua (or another coffee liqueur)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. On the bottom rack, place a 9×13 pan and fill with hot water (this creates a make-shift steam bath) and place the other rack in the middle position. Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

To make the crust, combine the Oreo crumbs, butter and the cinnamon. Mix well and press mixture into the greased springform pan, set aside.

In a microwave safe bowl, stir together the chocolate chips and cream. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is melted. Set aside to cool.

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, mixing until well blended. Add eggs, one at a time. Beat at low speed until very smooth. Carefully add chocolate mixture, blend well. Stir in sour cream, salt, coffee, Kahlua, and vanilla; beat until combined. Pour mixture into prepared pan.

Bake over the pan of hot water for 45 minutes. Center will be soft but will firm up when chilled. Turn off oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake rest with the door ajar for 45 minutes. Remove from oven, cover with plastic wrap, and chill for 12 hours. Slice and serve.

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