Kahlúa Cheesecake: From Bar Cart to Dessert Table

A slice of Kahlua cake with cheese

Kahlúa Cheesecake is my new way to celebrate Kahlua Day (February 27th). This dessert combines the rich flavors of coffee liqueur and creamy cheesecake. It’s the perfect indulgence for this special occasion.

Kahlúa cheesecake recipe

Kahlúa Cheesecake is a decadent dessert for any occasion. It combines the rich flavors of creamy cheesecake and the subtle kick of coffee-flavored liqueur Kahlúa. Kahlúa adds complex depth to the flavor of the traditional cheesecake.

A slice of Kahlúa Cheesecake is on the plate

The liqueur elevates the cake 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.

One of the aspects that I love about Kahlua Cheesecake is its versatility. You can create your version with chocolate, caramel, or even a hint of cinnamon. 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.
5 from 1 vote
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.

Nutrition

Calories: 370kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 250mgSugar: 29g
Keyword baking recipes, coffee liqueur, home baking, kahlua cheesecake
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Pairing suggestions

  1. Beverages
    • Coffee enhances the dessert’s flavors. You can try single-origin espresso, cold brew, or Vietnamese coffee.
    • Irish Cream Liqueur creates a creamy texture.
    • Sweet dessert wines like Port or the late-harvest Riesling balance the richness of the cheesecake.
    • Chocolate Stout Beer complements the chocolate elements in the cheesecake.
  2. Food Pairings
    • Fresh Berries create a tangy contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
    • Almond Biscotti is a great choice.
    • Whipped Cream adds a light, airy texture. It complements the richness of the cheesecake.
    • Espresso Macarons go well with the cheesecake.
    • Chocolate shavings or curls elevate the presentation and add a rich, chocolatey flavor.
    • Vanilla Bean Shortbread makes a great pair.
    • Chopped pecans or walnuts create a satisfying crunch.

Variations

  1. Kahlua Chocolate Cheesecake has complex flavor dynamics.
    • 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.

1 thought on “Kahlúa Cheesecake: From Bar Cart to Dessert Table”

5 from 1 vote

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