Oreo Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the irresistible crunch and creaminess of Oreos combined with the silky richness of cheesecake, then this Oreo Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Each bite delivers that perfect harmony of crunchy Oreo crust, velvety cream cheese filling studded with chunks of Oreo cookies, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping that just melts in your mouth. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to follow and absolutely unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to make this cheesecake sing. Each component plays a crucial role, from the Oreos that deliver texture and flavor, to the cream cheese that creates that luscious body, and the chocolate ganache that tops it all with decadent goodness.

• Oreos (36 + 22 for filling + 5 for topping): The star ingredient, providing crunch, chocolate flavor, and rich cookie goodness throughout the dessert.
• Kosher salt (1 and 1/2 teaspoons total): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Granulated sugar (about 1 1/2 cups + 2 tablespoons for crust): Sweetens the cheesecake and crust without overpowering it.
• Butter (1/4 cup melted + 2 tablespoons for ganache): Adds richness and helps bind the Oreo crust for that perfect foundation.
• Eggs (3 large): Lighten and set the cheesecake filling for the perfect creamy texture.
• Cream cheese (four 8-ounce packages): The essential creamy component for that luscious, smooth filling.
• Full-fat sour cream (3/4 cup): Adds tang and richness, keeping the cheesecake moist and delicious.
• Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Brings warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): A tiny zing that brightens the cream cheese mixture perfectly.
• Heavy cream (1/3 cup): For creating the decadent chocolate ganache topping.
• Semisweet chocolate chips (2/3 cup): Melts into a luscious ganache that perfectly complements the cheesecake.
• Whipped cream: Optional but highly recommended—adds lightness and balances the richness beautifully.

How to Make Oreo Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese

Start by letting your cream cheese come to room temperature for 3-4 hours. This step is essential because soft cream cheese beats into a smoother, lump-free mixture, which means a silkier cheesecake. If you’re short on time, you can speed this up in the microwave at low power—but watch closely to avoid melting it.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease the top two inches of a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray. This clever trick ensures the cheesecake won’t stick to the sides as it rises, which means a beautiful, easy-to-release cake once baked.

Step 3: Make the Oreo Crust

In a food processor, pulse 36 Oreos, kosher salt, and granulated sugar until you have fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse again until crumbs are fully coated and stick together when pressed. Press this crumb mixture into the pan, making sure to bring crumbs up the sides for that classic cheesecake crust. Bake for 12 minutes, then cool it down. If the crust puffs up, gently press it back down while warm.

Step 4: Beat the Eggs

Whisk eggs on medium speed for about 3 minutes until light yellow and slightly foamy. This step adds air and helps the cheesecake stay creamy but light in texture.

Step 5: Cream the Cream Cheese

Beat the softened cream cheese until perfectly smooth and lump-free. This is super important because any lumps now will turn into lumps in your cheesecake, and that’s the last thing you want.

Step 6: Combine the Batter

Add the beaten eggs back into the cream cheese bowl along with sour cream, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt. Beat on medium speed until everything is silky smooth. Be sure to scrape down the sides to get an even mixture.

Step 7: Chop and Fold in Oreos

Take 22 Oreos and chop them into halves, quarters, and coarse pieces. Folding these chunks gently into the batter gives you delightful Oreo bites throughout the cheesecake—don’t stir too vigorously or you’ll crush the pieces and lose that wonderful texture contrast.

Step 8: Bake with Steam

Pour the batter into your cooled crust and set up a steam bath in the oven by placing a pan with boiling water on the rack below the cheesecake. Bake at 325°F for 40 minutes, then turn off the oven and leave the cake inside for 3-4 hours without opening the door. This slow cooling prevents cracks and gives you that perfectly creamy texture.

Step 9: Chill Overnight

After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This waiting time is key to letting the flavors develop and the texture set.

Step 10: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Warm the heavy cream gently in the microwave until just bubbling around the edges, then pour it over the chocolate chips. Let sit for a minute before whisking until smooth. Stir in butter for extra shine and richness. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes until slightly thick but still pourable.

Step 11: Add Ganache and Serve

Remove the cheesecake from the fridge, pour the ganache over the top, and spread it to the edges. You can let it drip down the sides for a gorgeous look. Chill again for 10-20 minutes to set the ganache if desired, then garnish with whipped cream and crushed Oreos.

How to Serve Oreo Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed Oreos are a must. The whipped cream cuts through the richness of the cheesecake and ganache, adding a fluffy lightness that balances every bite beautifully. For a pop of color, a few fresh raspberries or mint leaves add a lovely brightness.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake is a dessert all on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. For an elegant twist, serve with fresh berries or a simple berry compote to add a tart contrast that makes the chocolate and cream cheese sing even louder.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the cheesecake in individual glasses layered with additional crushed Oreos and whipped cream for a fun twist on the traditional slice. You can also drizzle extra chocolate ganache or caramel sauce on each serving for indulgent flair. For parties, cut into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter with mini forks for easy snacking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Oreo Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe tightly covered in the refrigerator, ideally in the springform pan wrapped with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days, but for best texture, try to enjoy it within that time frame before it starts to dry out.

Freezing

This cheesecake freezes beautifully! Wrap the fully cooled cake several times in plastic wrap and then in heavy-duty foil for protection against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 4 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. You can also freeze individual slices by flash freezing on a tray, then transferring to a bag. Thaw slices in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. However, if you want the ganache a little softer, let the slice sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving as it can change the texture and cause separation.

FAQs

Can I use regular table salt instead of kosher salt?

Yes! Just use about 3/4 teaspoon instead of a full teaspoon because table salt is finer and stronger in flavor. This will keep the balance perfect without making it overly salty.

Why do you bake the cheesecake with steaming water in the oven?

The steam helps keep moisture in the oven, which prevents the cheesecake from cracking and gives it a smooth, creamy texture. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference!

Can I substitute the Oreos with another cookie?

While Oreos provide the classic flavor and sturdy texture, you can get creative with other chocolate sandwich cookies or even chocolate wafers if you prefer. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold up in the crust and filling.

Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?

Chilling overnight is highly recommended because it allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully. If pressed for time, at least 6 hours will do, but patience always pays off here!

Can I make the ganache ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ganache a day in advance. Keep it covered at room temperature or in the fridge if your kitchen is warm. Before using, warm it gently if it’s too firm to pour smoothly.

Final Thoughts

This Oreo Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe is a true showstopper that always wows friends and family. Its ability to balance rich, creamy cheesecake with crunchy Oreos and smooth chocolate ganache makes it a dessert you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t be intimidated by its many steps—each one brings you closer to a slice of heaven. So go ahead, dive in, and share this amazing treat that’s sure to become a star in your dessert repertoire!

Print