Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
This Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake is a chocolate lover’s dream! With its rich layers of moist chocolate cake and creamy cheesecake, this dessert is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for indulgence. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout treat that will impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Impressive Presentation: Its layered design makes it a showstopper at parties.
- Versatile Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply to enjoy on a cozy night in.
- Easy to Make: While it looks fancy, the steps are straightforward for home bakers.
- Chocolate Galore: Filled with chocolate chips and a smooth buttercream finish, it’s a true delight for chocolate fans.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delectable cheesecake, having the right tools is crucial. They help streamline the process and ensure your cheesecake comes out perfectly!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups
- Baking sheets
Importance of Each Tool
- Springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its layers.
- Electric mixer: Makes whipping cream cheese and batter effortless, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Rubber spatula: Helps in folding ingredients gently without deflating the batter.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Layers
- 1 cup (130g) all purpose flour
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 6 tbsp (43g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup (120ml) hot water
For the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer
- 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (57g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup (153g) sour cream, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 oz | 169g | 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
For the Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- 1 3/4 cups unsalted butter
- 1 cup (114g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 cups (690g) powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
- 2 1/4 cups (380g) chocolate chips
How to Make Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake layers bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and hot water. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
Pour the batter into prepared springform pans:
Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let them cool completely before removing from pans.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In another bowl:
1. Beat together cream cheese and sugar until fluffy.
2. Add cocoa powder, sour cream, vanilla extract, melted chocolate chips, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Pour the cheesecake mixture over one of the cooled cake layers:
Bake in a water bath at 325°F (160°C) for about 50–60 minutes.
Turn off the oven and let it cool inside with the door slightly open for an hour.
Step 6: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
In a separate bowl:
1. Beat butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add cocoa powder and powdered sugar while alternating with heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
Step 7: Assemble Your Cheesecake
Once everything has cooled:
Place one cake layer on your serving plate.
Spread cheesecake over it followed by another cake layer on top.
Frost generously with chocolate buttercream and sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
Enjoy every bite of your homemade Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake!
How to Serve Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
Serving your homemade Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake can elevate any occasion. Here are some delightful suggestions to make your dessert shine.
Individual Slices
- Serve each slice on a decorative plate for an elegant touch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cheesecake for a stunning presentation.
- Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich flavor contrast.
Fresh Berries
- Garnish with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.
- The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side.
- The cold ice cream complements the creamy texture of the cheesecake.
Coffee or Espresso
- Offer a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso alongside.
- The bitterness of coffee enhances the chocolate flavors beautifully.
Cheesecake Bars
- Cut leftover cheesecake into bars for easy serving at gatherings.
- This makes it simple for guests to grab and enjoy!
How to Perfect Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
To ensure your Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and eggs to reach room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your cheesecake.
- Water Bath Method: Bake your cheesecake in a water bath to help maintain moisture and prevent cracking during baking.
- Cool Gradually: Let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar after baking. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks from temperature shock.
- Chill Properly: Refrigerate your cheesecake for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows flavors to meld and improves texture.
- Garnish Creatively: Top with chocolate shavings, nuts, or additional chocolate chips for an eye-catching finish.
Best Side Dishes for Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and freshness that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
- Chocolate Mousse: A light and airy chocolate mousse offers an additional layer of decadence without overwhelming sweetness.
- Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side for texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with creamy cheesecake.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake adds a comforting element that pairs well with dessert, especially during brunch or tea time.
- Whipped Cream Dip: Offer a light whipped cream dip with fruit skewers; this addition is fun and interactive for guests.
- Chocolate Fondue: Provide a small pot of chocolate fondue alongside fruit and marshmallows for dipping, creating an interactive dessert experience!
- Classic Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds texture and serves as a delightful accompaniment to coffee served alongside dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to lumps in your cheesecake. Always let these ingredients come to room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can incorporate too much air and cause cracks in the cheesecake. Mix until just combined to keep it smooth and creamy.
- Skipping the water bath: A water bath helps regulate baking temperature and prevents cracking. Be sure to use one for a perfect texture!
- Not letting it cool properly: Cutting into a warm cheesecake can ruin its texture. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.
- Ignoring chilling time: A well-chilled cheesecake is firmer and easier to slice. Give it at least 4 hours in the fridge, ideally overnight.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep your cheesecake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Use a double boiler method with gentle heat for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake.
How do I make my cheesecake more chocolatey?
You can add extra melted chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter or increase the cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate based on your preference for the cheesecake layer.
How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
To minimize cracking, ensure you mix gently, use a water bath during baking, and allow gradual cooling after baking.
Can I customize toppings for my Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake?
Yes! Toppings like whipped cream, chocolate curls, or crushed candy bars make great additions.
Final Thoughts
This Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can easily customize it with different toppings or flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want something sweet, this dessert is sure to please everyone. Try it out and enjoy every bite!
Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Copycat Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake. This rich and creamy delight features layers of moist chocolate cake and velvety cheesecake, making it a perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for something special. With its impressive presentation and decadent flavor, this cheesecake is sure to wow your friends and family. Easy to make yet visually stunning, it’s filled with chocolate chips and topped with a luscious buttercream frosting that chocolate lovers will adore.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (130g) all purpose flour
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 6 tbsp (43g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup (120ml) hot water
- 24 ounces (678g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup (207g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (57g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2/3 cup (153g) sour cream, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 oz | 169g | 1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 3/4 cups unsalted butter
- 1 cup (114g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
- 6 cups (690g) powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
- 2 1/4 cups (380g) chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the chocolate cake layers by mixing flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and hot water until smooth. Pour into springform pans and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- For the cheesecake layer, beat cream cheese and sugar until fluffy. Mix in cocoa powder, sour cream, melted chocolate chips, and eggs until well combined. Pour over one cooled cake layer and bake in a water bath at 325°F (160°C) for 50–60 minutes.
- Prepare the buttercream frosting by creaming butter with cocoa powder and powdered sugar while alternating with heavy cream until smooth.
- Once cooled, assemble your cheesecake by layering the cake, cheesecake filling, and frosting generously on top.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 80 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (112g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
