Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Delight

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Delight.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   To prepare your 9-inch springform pan and prevent any leaks, line both the bottom and sides with four layers of aluminum foil.

3. Step 3

   This little trick will save you from messy surprises later on.

4. Step 4

   Next, grab your food processor and pulse the graham crackers until they’re finely crushed.

5. Step 5

   Add in the melted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then pulse again until everything is well combined—this should take about five quick pulses.

6. Step 6

   Now, press this delicious mixture evenly into the bottom and halfway up the sides of your prepared pan.

7. Step 7

   Pop the crust into your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it’s fragrant and slightly crispy.

8. Step 8

   Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool while you whip up the cheesecake filling.

9. Step 9

   Don’t forget to lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) for the next step.

10. Step 10

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, and the remaining 1 1/4 cups of sugar.

11. Step 11

    Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, mix on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this should take about 1 to 2 minutes.

12. Step 12

    Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

13. Step 13

    Next, add the sour cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, mixing until just combined, which should only take about 30 seconds.

14. Step 14

    Now it’s time to add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until each egg is just incorporated.

15. Step 15

    Gently fold in 1 cup of the chocolate chips, letting their sweetness blend into the filling.

16. Step 16

    Pour this luscious cheesecake mixture into your cooled crust, and sprinkle the top with 1/4 cup of the remaining chocolate chips for that extra touch of indulgence.

17. Step 17

    To create a gentle baking environment, place the springform pan into a larger roasting pan.

18. Step 18

    Carefully pour boiling water into the roasting pan until it reaches about 1 inch up the sides of the springform pan, being cautious not to let any water seep into the cheesecake.

19. Step 19

    Bake the cheesecake for 60 to 65 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center.

20. Step 20

    Once it’s done, turn off the oven and prop the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for an hour.

21. Step 21

    After that, remove it from the oven and the water bath, letting it cool completely for about 30 minutes.

22. Step 22

    Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until fully chilled, which will take at least 4 hours or overnight if you can wait that long.

23. Step 23

    While your cheesecake is chilling, let’s make the ganache.

24. Step 24

    Place the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips in a medium bowl.

25. Step 25

    Heat the heavy cream in the microwave until it’s hot but not boiling—this should take about a minute.

26. Step 26

    Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 5 minutes without stirring.

27. Step 27

    After that, add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt and stir until the mixture is smooth and shiny.

28. Step 28

    Allow the ganache to cool for about 15 minutes, letting it thicken just a bit.

29. Step 29

    As the ganache cools, run a sharp knife around the edges of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan.

30. Step 30

    Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, and gently run the knife under the bottom of the cheesecake to loosen it.

31. Step 31

    Now, transfer the cheesecake onto a serving plate or cake stand with care.

32. Step 32

    Pour the luscious chocolate ganache over the top of the cheesecake, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge for a beautiful presentation.

33. Step 33

    Crumble the speculoos cookies and sprinkle them over the ganache for a delightful crunch.

34. Step 34

    Finally, place the unwrapped candy kisses around the uncovered perimeter of the cheesecake for a sweet finishing touch.

35. Step 35

    Slice it up and serve cold or at room temperature, and watch as everyone enjoys this decadent treat!.