Delve into the delightful whimsy of the Cookie Monster Cheesecake, an irresistible dessert featuring a rich chocolate chip cookie crust and a creamy cookies and cream filling. Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and adorned with cookie pieces, this vibrant blue cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for birthdays or any fun gathering.
Ingredients
Chocolate Chip Cookie Blondie:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup semisweet mini chocolate chips
Cookies and Cream Cheesecake:
- 16 oz cream cheese
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup whipping cream
- Blue gel food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
- 15 regular Oreo cookies, crushed
Chocolate Ganache:
- 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
To Decorate:
- Chocolate chip cookies, broken into pieces
Directions
- Blondie Base: Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter and flour an 8-inch springform pan. Melt butter with salt and brown sugar in a microwave-safe bowl. Let cool slightly. Stir in egg and vanilla, then gradually mix in flour. Fold in chocolate chips. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan. Bake for 15-16 minutes. Cool completely.
- Cheesecake Layer: Reduce oven temperature to 300°F. Beat cream cheese, cornstarch, sugar, and salt until smooth. Add whipping cream, blue food coloring, and vanilla, mixing well. Add eggs one at a time, then fold in crushed Oreos. Pour over cooled blondie layer. Prepare a water bath for baking.
- Baking: Wrap springform pan in foil and place in a larger baking tray with water halfway up the pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes until set but slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, open door slightly, and let cool inside for 15-30 minutes. Remove, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight.
- Ganache and Decoration: Microwave chocolate chips, cream, and salt until smooth. Cool slightly until thick. Spread over chilled cheesecake and top with broken chocolate chip cookies.
Tips
- Use high-quality blue food coloring for a vibrant color.
- Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Let the cheesecake cool gradually to prevent cracking.
FAQs
Q: How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
A: Cook it in a water bath and let it cool gradually in the oven.
Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A: Yes, it’s best to make it a day ahead to ensure it sets properly.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes plus chilling
Yield: Serves 12-16
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian
Conclusion
The Cookie Monster Cheesecake is a fun, flavorful dessert that combines classic flavors with a playful twist. Perfect for special occasions or just a treat to brighten any day, this cheesecake promises to be a memorable part of your culinary creations. Enjoy the process of making and the pleasure of serving this stunning and delicious treat!
