Chocolate and Raisin Cheesecake

Chocolate and Raisin Cheesecake – a decadent and refined dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 8

If you are looking for a cheesecake recipe that will impress, then the chocolate and raisin cheesecake is the perfect choice. This quick dessert combines the creamy texture of cheese with the intense flavors of chocolate and the subtle sweetness of raisins. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step!

Ingredients for the crust:
- 200 g digestive biscuits (or cocoa biscuits for an extra chocolatey touch)
- 100 g unsalted butter, melted
- 50 g sugar

Ingredients for the filling:
- 500 g cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese (for a smoother texture)
- 200 g heavy cream
- 150 g sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 200 g dark chocolate, melted and cooled
- 100 g raisins (preferably golden for a nice color contrast)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the crust: Start by preparing the crust. In a large bowl, crush the digestive biscuits until they become a fine powder. You can use a food processor to do this quickly and easily. Add the melted butter and sugar, mixing well until the mixture becomes moist and crumbly.

2. Forming the crust: Pour the biscuit mixture into a springform cake pan (24 cm in diameter) and press down firmly with a spatula or the bottom of a glass to create an even layer. Ensure that the crust is compact so that it doesn’t crumble during baking. Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to set.

3. Preparing the filling: In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese or mascarpone and mix with an electric mixer until creamy. Add the heavy cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix on low speed to avoid forming air bubbles.

4. Adding the chocolate: Once the filling is smooth, pour in the melted and cooled dark chocolate, mixing with a spatula until incorporated. Finally, add the raisins and gently mix to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.

5. Baking the cheesecake: Preheat the oven to 160°C (medium heat). Pour the cheesecake filling over the biscuit crust in the pan. Bake the cheesecake for about 45 minutes or until the center is set but slightly wobbly.

6. Cooling and serving: Once the cheesecake is done, let it cool at room temperature for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight) to firm up.

Serving suggestions: Serve the cheesecake with a warm chocolate glaze or whipped cream on top. You can also add a handful of toasted nuts for a crunchy contrast.

Possible variations: Instead of raisins, you can use dried cranberries for a tangier flavor or even pieces of candied fruit. Additionally, for a lighter cheesecake, you can replace the sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

With this chocolate and raisin cheesecake recipe, you will bring a touch of elegance to your table, being a simple yet impressive dessert that will win everyone’s hearts. Make it with love and enjoy every delicious slice!