Description
Indulge in the elegant and decadent White Chocolate & Almond Amaretto Cheesecake, a perfect dessert that balances creamy, nutty, and boozy flavors. This luxurious cheesecake combines rich white chocolate, fragrant almond extract, and subtle amaretto liqueur for a silky smooth texture and unforgettable taste. Ideal for special occasions or cozy nights in, it features a buttery crust and a luscious filling that’s both sophisticated and comforting.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham crackers, crushed (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz (225g) white chocolate, good quality
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur (or substitute with extra almond extract or vanilla extract for non-alcoholic)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers or almond flour and mix with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Melt the White Chocolate: Gently melt the white chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Let it cool slightly so it does not cook the cream cheese in the next step.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Base: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a smooth texture.
- Incorporate White Chocolate, Amaretto, and Almond: Slowly mix the melted white chocolate into the cream cheese mixture followed by almond extract and amaretto liqueur. Stir gently to combine without overmixing to avoid air bubbles.
- Add Cream and Pour Into Pan: Fold in heavy cream or sour cream to add moisture and creaminess. Pour the batter over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Bake cheesecake in a water bath for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly, ensuring a silky, custardy texture.
- Chill and Serve: Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavors. Slice with a hot knife for clean edges before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature dairy and eggs for smooth mixing and to avoid lumps.
- Bake cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking and maintain creamy texture.
- Remove from oven when the center still jiggles slightly; residual heat finishes baking.
- Allow at least 4 hours chilling to firm up and meld flavors.
- Use a hot knife run around the edges for neat, clean slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg