Ingredients

1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

¼ cup granulated sugar

24 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup sour cream

½ cup heavy cream

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup mini marshmallows

½ cup chocolate chips

Whipped cream (for topping)

Chocolate shavings (for topping)

Additional mini marshmallows (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature will help achieve a creamy cheesecake texture.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand.

Step 3: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a solid crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool completely.

Step 4: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, without lumps.

Step 5: Add the sour cream, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder. Beat until the mixture is silky and fully incorporated.

Step 6: Gently fold in mini marshmallows and chocolate chips to keep them intact within the batter.

Step 7: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake for 55-60 minutes. The center should still jiggle slightly while the edges are set.

Step 9: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.

Step 10: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Step 11: Before serving, top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and extra mini marshmallows for a festive finish.

Tips & Variations

For a deeper chocolate flavor, substitute unsweetened cocoa powder with dark chocolate cocoa powder.

Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances the flavors and achieves a firmer, creamier texture.

Add a layer of melted chocolate over the cheesecake surface before topping it for an extra chocolate boost.

Experiment with different crusts, such as Oreo crumbs or chopped nuts, to vary the texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While chocolate graham cracker crust is traditional here, you can use an Oreo crust, nut-based crust, or any other favorite to customize the flavor and texture.

Can I prepare the cheesecake in advance?

Yes, this cheesecake improves with time. Make it a day ahead and chill overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to become perfectly creamy.