Kahlua Cheesecake Recipe: from Bar Cart to Dessert Table

A slice of Kahlua cake with cheese

February 27th is the Kahlua Day in the US. It’s a delightful occasion where I usually whip up a classic cocktail featuring this beloved coffee liqueur. But this year, I’ll shake things up by combining Kahlua with a dessert: Kahlua Cheesecake.

Kahlua cheesecake recipe

Kahlua Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of creamy cheesecake and the subtle kick of coffee-flavored liqueur Kahlua. Kahlua complex depth of flavor while creating an extraordinarily creamy texture in the traditional cheesecake recipe, elevating it to a whole new level of indulgence. This dessert is another option for those who love both coffee and dessert, besides Coffee Jelly and Affogato.

Kahlua Cheesecake recipe

One of the aspects that I love about Kahlua Cheesecake is its versatility. You can create your own version by incorporating chocolate, caramel, or even a hint of cinnamon to complement the coffee notes of the Kahlua. Here’s how to make Kahlua Cheesecake:

A slice of Kahlua cake with cheese

Baked Kahlua Cheesecake

A delightful balance of sweet and aromatic flavors. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a boozy, coffee-flavored twist on traditional cheesecake.
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Cooling time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 370 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 24 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup Kahlua coffee liqueur
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream for topping (optional)
  • Additional Kahlua for drizzling optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the Kahlua and vanilla extract until fully combined.
  • Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  • Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door closed for 1 hour to cool gradually.
  • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set.
  • Once chilled, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate. If desired, top with whipped cream and drizzle with additional Kahlua before serving.
Keyword baking recipes, coffee liqueur, home baking, kahlua cheesecake

Variations

1. Kahlua Chocolate Cheesecake

The chocolate variation has complex flavor dynamics. To make this version:

  • Add cocoa powder in step 2
  • Make the chocolate layer on top by melting the chocolate with Kahlua and pour the glaze over the cool cake, ensuring to spread it out evenly to cover the entire surface before putting it in the fridge.

2. Caramel Kahlua Cheesecake

  • Add 2 tbsp caramel sauce to the filling.
  • Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top before serving.
  • Optional: Add a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel twist.

3. Mocha Kahlua Cheesecake

  • Add 1 tbsp espresso powder to the cream cheese mixture for a bolder coffee flavor.
  • Dust the top with cocoa powder or top with chocolate shavings.

4. Peanut Butter Kahlua Cheesecake

  • Add 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture.
  • Top with a peanut butter drizzle or chopped peanuts for extra texture.

Pairing suggestions

1. Beverages

  • Coffee: The coffee notes in Kahlua resonate well with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, enhancing the dessert’s flavors. Here are some coffee pairings:
    • Single-Origin Espresso
    • Cold Brew
    • Vietnamese Coffee
  • Irish Cream Liqueur: For those who enjoy a creamy texture, Irish cream liqueur can be served alongside or poured over the cheesecake.
  • Dessert Wines: Sweet dessert wines like Port or a late-harvest Riesling can balance the richness of the cheesecake.
  • Chocolate Stout Beer: A rich chocolate stout can complement the chocolate elements in the cheesecake while adding a unique flavor profile.

2. Food Pairings

  • Fresh Berries: Pair the cheesecake with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tangy contrast to its sweetness.
  • Almond Biscotti
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
  • Espresso Macarons
  • Chocolate Shavings: Top with dark chocolate shavings or curls to elevate the presentation and add a rich, chocolatey flavor.
  • Vanilla Bean Shortbread
  • Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the creamy filling.

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