Baked Brigadeiro Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache
A luscious Brazilian-inspired cheesecake combining the rich sweetness of brigadeiro with a smooth chocolate ganache topping. This Brazilian-inspired recipe, ready in about 80 minutes, layers cream cheese, softened, sweetened condensed milk, unsweetened cocoa powder into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 8, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 oz semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
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Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk and 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Beat in 3 large eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition until the batter is smooth and glossy.
- Step 4: Pour the batter over the prepared crust and bake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with door cracked for 1 hour.
- Step 5: For the ganache, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and pour over 4 ounces semisweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Step 6: Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing. Serve chilled for a decadent Brazilian dessert experience.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Baked Brigadeiro Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache take to make?
Total time is about 80 minutes (20 min prep + 60 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Baked Brigadeiro Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Baked Brigadeiro Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Baked Brigadeiro Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 8 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 8). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Baked Brigadeiro Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache?
Brazilian desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
