Introduction
Cheesecake Chocolate Chip is the perfect marriage of rich, creamy cheesecake and the comforting sweetness of chocolate chips. This dessert is ideal when you want something familiar yet indulgent, offering a balance between smooth texture and bursts of chocolate in every bite. I first made this cheesecake when I wanted a crowd-pleasing dessert that felt special without being overly complicated, and it quickly became a favorite. The cheesecake base is velvety and lightly tangy, while the chocolate chips add warmth and sweetness without overpowering the classic cheesecake flavor. It is elegant enough for celebrations yet simple enough for casual family desserts. Whether served plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar, this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake delivers comfort, richness, and timeless appeal in every slice.
Print
Cheesecake Chocolate Chip: A Creamy Classic with a Sweet Twist
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy cheesecake loaded with chocolate chips on a buttery graham cracker crust, combining classic cheesecake smoothness with bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar; press firmly into the pan to form the crust.
- Bake crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract.
- Toss chocolate chips with flour and fold into the batter.
- Pour batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes until center is slightly set.
- Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing.
Notes
- Do not overmix to avoid cracks.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for best texture.
- Cheesecake tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesecake is creamy, rich, and easy to prepare. The chocolate chips add texture and sweetness, making it appealing to both cheesecake lovers and chocolate fans. It holds its shape beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cream cheese forms the foundation of the cheesecake, providing richness, tang, and a smooth, creamy texture when properly softened.
Sugar sweetens the cheesecake and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese without overpowering it.
Eggs help bind the filling and give the cheesecake structure while maintaining a soft, custard-like texture.
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth to the filling.
Sour cream adds creaminess and a subtle tang that keeps the cheesecake from feeling too heavy.
Chocolate chips bring bursts of sweetness and texture throughout the cheesecake. Mini chips distribute more evenly, while regular chips provide larger chocolate pockets.
Graham cracker crumbs create a classic crust with a lightly sweet, crunchy base.
Butter binds the crust and adds richness, helping it hold together firmly.
Salt sharpens and balances the sweetness of both the filling and crust.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and preparing a springform pan. Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake briefly, then allow it to cool.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and mix until fully combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and salt until smooth.
Fold the chocolate chips evenly into the filling. Pour the mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually before refrigerating for several hours until fully set.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This cheesecake yields approximately 10 slices. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, baking time is 55 to 60 minutes, and chilling time is at least 4 hours.
Storage/reheating
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. Cheesecake is best served chilled. Reheating is not recommended.

Variations and Customizations
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake is easy to adapt. Swap semi-sweet chips for dark or milk chocolate depending on preference. Add a swirl of chocolate or caramel sauce to the top before baking for a decorative finish.
For extra texture, chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can be added to the filling or crust. You can also use a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham crackers for a richer base.
Each variation keeps the creamy cheesecake character intact while adding a personal touch.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dessert is rich and indulgent, providing fats from cream cheese and butter along with carbohydrates from sugar and crust. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Smooth filling
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.
Even baking
Avoid overmixing once eggs are added to prevent cracking.
Clean slices
Wipe the knife between cuts for neat presentation.
FAQs
Can I use mini chocolate chips?
Yes, mini chips distribute more evenly throughout the cheesecake.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overbaking or rapid cooling can cause cracks.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal when made a day in advance.
Can I freeze chocolate chip cheesecake?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.
What crust works best?
Graham cracker crust is classic, but cookie crusts also work well.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but reducing too much may affect texture.
Should I use room-temperature ingredients?
Yes, this ensures a smooth filling.
Can I add chocolate on top?
Yes, a ganache or drizzle works beautifully.
Is a water bath required?
It helps prevent cracks but is not strictly necessary.
How do I know it is done baking?
The edges should be set with a slight jiggle in the center.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Chocolate Chip is a timeless dessert that blends creamy richness with comforting chocolate flavor. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, it is a dependable recipe perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or anytime you crave a classic, indulgent treat.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!