Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake

Name: Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup dark chocolate, melted; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; Pinch of salt; 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Highlighted under: Oven Favorites

I absolutely love making this Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake because it blends the rich flavors of chocolate with the creamy texture of ricotta. The contrast of a decadent dessert with a hint of lightness in the texture is something I enjoy sharing with friends and family. It never fails to impress at gatherings or just as a special treat at home. Every bite is a delightful balance of indulgence and comfort that I find hard to resist. This is a recipe I keep coming back to!

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:37:35.513Z

When I first tried making this Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake, I was amazed at how creamy and flavorful it turned out. The combination of ricotta cheese and silky chocolate creates a texture that’s both rich and light, making it perfect for any occasion. I’ve experimented with different types of chocolate, and I found that using a mix of dark and milk chocolate gives the best balance.

One of my favorite tips is to let the cheesecake chill overnight before serving; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The next day, when you slice into it, you'll notice that the cheesecake has the perfect consistency - smooth yet firm enough to hold its shape on a plate. Trust me, your friends will be asking for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Understanding Key Ingredients

Ricotta cheese is a foundational element in this cheesecake, providing a uniquely light and moist texture that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the dark chocolate. When selecting ricotta, opt for fresh, high-quality cheese for the best flavor. A smoother ricotta can enhance creaminess, so consider blending it briefly in a food processor before mixing it with the other ingredients to achieve an ultra-smooth filling.

Dark chocolate is pivotal as well, bringing depth and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness from the sugar. Choose a chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for a well-rounded flavor profile. If you find yourself without dark chocolate, semi-sweet or even bittersweet varieties work as substitutes, but remember the flavor will shift slightly. Always let the chocolate cool a bit after melting before incorporating it into the cream cheese mixture to avoid curdling.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture is critical for a successful cheesecake. When mixing the filling, be sure to blend until just smooth; overmixing can incorporate too much air, resulting in cracks during baking. Pay close attention as you add in the eggs—incorporate each one thoroughly before adding the next to maintain a luxurious consistency without excessive beating.

During baking, keep a close eye on the cheesecake. It's ready when the edges appear set but the center maintains a slight wobble. This residual heat will continue to cook the center slightly as it cools, leading to the ideal creamy interior. If cracks do form, don’t worry! A dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can beautifully disguise them at serving time.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake

1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup dark chocolate, melted
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt

For the Crust

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.

Mix the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sugar, and melted chocolate. Beat on medium speed until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated, then add the vanilla, flour, and salt until just combined.

Pour and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust. Bake for 40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

Cool and Chill

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Serve

Once chilled, release the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve, adding a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider drizzling some chocolate ganache over the top before serving or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to two months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you want to serve the cheesecake at a later date, consider leaving off any toppings until just before serving. Whipped cream and fresh berries can be added last minute, ensuring they remain fresh and visually appealing. This also allows you to customize individual servings based on your guests’ preferences.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Chocolate Ricotta Cheesecake, consider adding personalized touches. A dollop of freshly whipped cream not only adds texture but also complements the richness of the cheesecake. For an extra layer of flavor, infuse the whipped cream with vanilla or orange zest, which harmonizes beautifully with the chocolate.

Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, provide a tart contrast that cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the overall dining experience. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple chocolate ganache or sprinkle cocoa powder over the top before serving. These garnishes add visual appeal and can elevate the dessert from delightful to truly decadent.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer flavor, or use cottage cheese for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze this cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

→ What can I use instead of chocolate cookies for the crust?

You can use graham crackers or even vanilla wafers if you prefer a different flavor profile for the crust.