Nutella Cheesecake

Nutella is the kind of spread that’s perfectly acceptable to eat straight out of the jar. But combining it with an Oreo cookie crust and a creamy chocolate cheesecake filling transforms it into the ultimate Nutella dessert. This easy Nutella cheesecake is like many chocolate cheesecake recipes but has an amped-up hazelnut flavor.

Nutella cheesecake is surprisingly easy to make too. This recipe doesn’t even require a cheesecake water bath! Baking the cheesecake at a low temperature is enough to prevent significant cracking.

Ingredients for Nutella Cheesecake

• Oreo crust: Crushed Oreo cookies mixed with sugar and melted butter create a rich chocolate base for the cheesecake. You don’t need to buy the Oreo brand specifically. Try our Test Kitchen’s favorite off-brand Oreo cookies. Granulated sugar also sweetens the cheesecake, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese and the richness of the Nutella.
• Cream cheese: The star of any cheesecake, cream cheese provides the creamy, tangy base that pairs wonderfully with Nutella. Buy one of the best cream cheese brands, and ensure it’s at room temperature for lump-free mixing.
• Nutella: This beloved hazelnut spread is the key ingredient that transforms a classic cheesecake into a Nutella cheesecake. It adds a unique, rich flavor and silky texture to the cheesecake. Peanut butter-chocolate fans should try Nutella Peanut—Nutella’s first flavor drop in 60 years.
• Heavy whipping cream: Cream adds lightness and airiness to the cheesecake as it is whipped into the filling.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and giving the cheesecake its structure. They contribute to the smooth, velvety texture.
• Hazelnuts: Chopped hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor of the Nutella. They also provide an appealing texture contrast to the creamy filling.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

Pulse the Oreo cookies and sugar in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Continue processing while gradually adding melted butter. Press the crumb mixture onto the bottom of a greased 10-inch springform pan. Wrap the pan’s bottom and side with two layers of heavy-duty foil.

Step 2: Make the filling

Preheat the oven to 325°F. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the Nutella, cream and salt, and continue beating until fully incorporated. Add the eggs and beat on low speed until just blended.

Test Kitchen Tip: Overbeating the eggs is a common cheesecake mistake. Mixing too much air into them will make the cheesecake puff in the oven, then collapse and crack once it cools.

Step 3: Assemble, bake and chill

Pour the filling onto the crust and spread it evenly. Bake the cheesecake until a thermometer inserted in the center reads 160°, about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Then refrigerate overnight to set. Once it’s completely cooled, cover it.

Editor’s Tip: The cheesecake will appear loose and wobbly, but it will firm up overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Garnish and serve

Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan, then remove the springform pan’s ring. Before serving, garnish the cheesecake with chopped hazelnuts.

Nutella Cheesecake Variations

• Add a Nutella swirl: Create a marbled effect by swirling additional Nutella into the cheesecake batter before baking. To do this, pour the batter into the springform pan, then dollop a few tablespoons of Nutella randomly on top. Use a toothpick to swirl the Nutella around for a pretty marbled look.
• Go gluten-free: To make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free Oreos for the crust. Most grocery stores that already sell Oreos will have the gluten-free version, and they taste exactly like regular Oreos. Win!
• Use another cookie crust: Chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies offer a slightly different flavor and texture than Oreo cookies. You can also try regular graham crackers, vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits or other crumb crust ingredients.

How to Store Nutella Cheesecake

To store Nutella cheesecake, allow it to cool completely to room temperature (if you haven’t yet chilled it). Cover the cheesecake with storage wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent the cheesecake from drying out and absorbing other odors. Refrigerate Nutella cheesecake for up to five days.

Can you freeze Nutella cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze Nutella cheesecake. To freeze the already-chilled cheesecake, wrap it tightly in storage wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil. The cheesecake can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutella Cheesecake Tips

How do you cut Nutella cheesecake into clean slices?

To cut the Nutella cheesecake into clean slices, first chill the cheesecake for at least eight hours. It’s best to let it chill overnight to set completely. When you’re ready to cut, run a sharp knife under hot water and carefully wipe it off with a paper towel. Make your first cut, then run the knife under hot water again to remove debris, carefully wipe it dry, then make your next cut. Repeat this process until your entire cheesecake is sliced.

Can I make Nutella cheesecake without a springform pan?

Yes, you can make Nutella cheesecake without a springform pan. While a springform pan is ideal, you can use a 10-inch square pan lined with parchment for easy removal. It must be lined with parchment, though, with a slight overhang so you can remove the cheesecake. It will be very hard to cut and serve the cheesecake while it’s in the pan.

How do I know when my Nutella cheesecake is done baking?

You’ll know the Nutella cheesecake is done baking when the edges are set and the center still slightly jiggles. It will firm up as it cools. You can also try the cheesecake test by gently but firmly tap the side of the springform pan with a wooden spoon to see if the cheesecake jiggles like Jell-O (it should not ripple like an ocean wave).