Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, pressing it down firmly to form an even crust.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add in the sugar, mixing until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.
Gently fold in the raspberries and chocolate chips, being careful not to crush the berries.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Remove from heat and pour the cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake.
6. Garnish and Serve:
After the ganache has been poured over the cheesecake, garnish with fresh raspberries.
Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Slice and serve the cheesecake chilled.
Tips:
Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Substitutions: You can use different berries like strawberries or blueberries if you prefer.
Enjoy your rich and decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake!
