The Cheesecake Factory's Godiva® Chocolate Cheesecake (Copycat Recipe)

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of this Godiva® Chocolate Cheesecake, a delightful copycat of the beloved dessert from The Cheesecake Factory. With a luscious chocolate filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a decadent chocolate ganache topping, this cheesecake is a chocolate lover's dream. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat at home, this recipe adheres to traditional baking methods and ensures a sweet, satisfying experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup Godiva® chocolate liqueur
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted
• 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
5. Add 1 cup of sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until well combined.
6. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
7. Stir in the Godiva® chocolate liqueur and melted semi-sweet chocolate until fully incorporated.
8. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
9. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.
10. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
11. Before serving, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the remaining melted chocolate and stir until smooth to create the ganache.
12. Spread the ganache over the top of the chilled cheesecake, slice, and serve.