Ingredients

1 cup reduced-fat whole wheat cracker , finely crushed ( such as McVitie 's brand or Carr 's whole wheat crackers )
1 ounce fine-quality bittersweet chocolate , grated ( no more than 60 % cacao if marked )
1/4 cup unsalted butter , melted
1/2 lb fine-quality bittersweet chocolate , chopped ( no more than 60 % cacao if marked )
8 tablespoons unsalted butter , cut into pieces
18 ounces cream cheese , at room temperature
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2/3 cup superfine sugar
1 cup hazelnuts , toasted loose skins rubbed off in a kitchen towel while still warm , and nuts chopped
Italian-Style Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines the flavors of Italy's most famous culinary exports: chocolate and hazelnuts. The recipe is inspired by the classic Italian dessert called "torta della nonna," which means "grandma's cake" in Italian. This cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or celebrations, such as Christmas, Valentine's Day, or birthdays. It can be served as a dessert after a fancy dinner or as a centerpiece for a dessert table. The cheesecake is made with a crunchy whole wheat cracker crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and a generous amount of chopped hazelnuts. The chocolate flavor is enhanced by the bittersweet chocolate and the grated chocolate in the crust. The cheesecake is best served chilled and topped with whipped cream or chocolate shavings.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
2.In a bowl, stir together the crushed crackers, grated chocolate, and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly onto the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. Bake for 8 minutes.
3.In a small saucepan, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
4.In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Slowly add the sugar and mix until well combined.
5.With a spatula, gently fold the melted chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture until evenly combined. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
6.Pour the mixture into the prepared crust and smooth the surface. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until just set. Turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
7.Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake before removing it from the pan and serving.

PROS

This cheesecake is perfect for chocolate lovers and hazelnut enthusiasts.
It is creamy, rich, and decadent, with a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.
The crust is made with whole wheat crackers, which add fiber and nutrients.

It makes a great dessert for special occasions or celebrations.

CONS

This cheesecake is high in calories, fat, sugar, and cholesterol, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.

It is not suitable for people with dairy or nut allergies.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Hazelnuts are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They have been linked to reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and helping with weight management.
Dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao) is a good source of antioxidants, fiber, and iron. It has been linked to reducing blood pressure, improving cognitive function, and enhancing mood.

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