If you’re dreaming of a dessert that combines creamy indulgence with rich, chocolate-hazelnut flavor, this Nutella Cheesecake Recipe is your new best friend. Every bite melts in your mouth thanks to a perfectly balanced mix of velvety cream cheese, luscious Nutella, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cheesecake will quickly become a favorite dessert that brings comfort and delight in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making your Nutella Cheesecake Recipe incredibly delicious. Each component has a special role, from the buttery crust that gives a delightful crunch to the airy filling that balances richness and fluffiness perfectly.
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Provides a crisp and slightly sweet base that holds the cheesecake together.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds subtle sweetness to the crust and cuts through the richness of the filling.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Binds the crust ingredients and adds a creamy, buttery flavor.
- Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): The creamy heart of the cheesecake, giving it a smooth and tangy texture.
- Nutella (1 cup): Infuses the dessert with the iconic chocolate-hazelnut flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the filling without granules, keeping it silky smooth.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth and depth.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped until stiff peaks, it lightens the filling for a fluffy, dreamy finish.
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, chopped hazelnuts, or an extra Nutella drizzle add texture and visual appeal.
How to Make Nutella Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture holds together when pressed. This step is crucial for developing that perfect buttery, crunchy foundation. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust, then bake it for 8 minutes. Once golden and fragrant, set it aside and allow it to cool completely. This step ensures your crust stays firm and doesn’t turn soggy under the luscious filling.
Step 2: Create the Nutella Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and creamy. This is essential to avoid any lumps in your cheesecake. Next, add the Nutella, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the filling achieves a rich, velvety consistency. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this is what will give your cheesecake a light, airy texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the Nutella-cream cheese mixture, taking care to keep the airiness intact for a soft and fluffy filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Spread the luscious filling evenly over your cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for a polished look. Cover your cheesecake with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours—overnight if possible—to allow it to set properly. This chilling step is where the cheesecake acts like magic, turning from a soft filling into a beautifully firm dessert that cuts cleanly and holds its shape perfectly.
How to Serve Nutella Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhancing your Nutella Cheesecake Recipe with garnishes makes every slice even more tempting. A generous swirl of whipped cream adds creaminess, while chocolate shavings or chopped hazelnuts bring a textural crunch and deepen the chocolate-hazelnut notes. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle warm Nutella over the top just before serving for a glossy, luscious finish that wow guests every time.
Side Dishes
Pairing this cheesecake with fresh berries or a light fruit compote introduces a delightful contrast, balancing the dessert’s richness with bright acidity. A scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream alongside can also elevate your dessert experience, making every bite a celebration of creamy, nutty goodness and fresh, fruity brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Presenting your Nutella Cheesecake Recipe with flair takes it from delicious to unforgettable. Try serving it in individual mini springform pans for a personal touch or as elegant bars with a sprinkle of edible gold dust for fancy occasions. You can also layer it in clear glasses with crushed hazelnuts and whipped cream for a beautiful parfait-style treat that looks as amazing as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve enjoyed your first slice, store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Proper storage ensures the cake retains its creamy texture and the Nutella flavor stays fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
This Nutella Cheesecake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the whole cake tightly with plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil, then freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since this cheesecake is best served chilled, reheating is not recommended. However, if you chose to drizzle warm Nutella on top, gently warming the Nutella in the microwave or on the stove before serving is perfect and enhances the presentation without affecting the cheesecake itself.
FAQs
Can I use a no-bake crust for this Nutella Cheesecake Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to skip the baking step, simply press the crust mixture firmly into your pan and freeze it for 15 minutes before adding the filling. This helps the crust set firmly without heat, keeping your cheesecake no-bake friendly.
Is it possible to substitute cream cheese with a lighter option?
While you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, keep in mind it may slightly alter the texture and richness of your Nutella Cheesecake Recipe. Full-fat cream cheese gives you that classic creamy consistency and decadent flavor everyone loves.
How long can I keep the cheesecake refrigerated before it goes bad?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your cheesecake will stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days. Beyond that, it might start to lose its texture and freshness, so it’s best enjoyed sooner.
Can I add extra Nutella inside the filling for more flavor?
You can certainly experiment by adding a bit more Nutella to intensify the hazelnut taste, but keep in mind that the filling might become denser. Adjust the powdered sugar slightly to maintain balanced sweetness.
Is this Nutella Cheesecake Recipe suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! Its impressive flavor, elegant look, and creamy texture make it a show-stopping dessert perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration where you want to impress without fuss.
Final Thoughts
This Nutella Cheesecake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying cheesecake for the first time, this recipe will charm your taste buds and those of anyone lucky enough to share it with you. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this dreamy cheesecake your go-to dessert for delicious moments and happy memories.
Print
Nutella Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Nutella Cheesecake is a decadent and creamy dessert combining a rich Nutella-flavored filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s easy to prepare with either a baked or no-bake crust option and features a fluffy texture thanks to whipped cream folded into the filling. Perfect for Nutella lovers looking for a delightful chocolate hazelnut treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Nutella
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped hazelnuts
- Extra Nutella drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter, mixing until evenly blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add Nutella, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then beat until fully combined and smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the Nutella mixture, ensuring the filling becomes light and fluffy.
- Assemble and chill: Spread the Nutella filling evenly over the cooled crust and smooth the surface. Cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it set properly.
- Serve and garnish: Before serving, top the cheesecake with optional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, chopped hazelnuts, or a drizzle of warmed Nutella to add extra flavor and decoration.
Notes
- You can substitute the graham cracker crust with an Oreo crust for a richer chocolate flavor.
- For a no-bake crust option, skip baking the crust and instead refrigerate or freeze it for 15 minutes before adding the filling.
- This cheesecake freezes well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to one month.
