A rich chocolate protein cheesecake with Nutella, Greek yogurt, cocoa, and a chocolate cookie crust, finished with creamy Nutella and crunchy pistachios.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:55–70 minutes
Total Time:8 hours
Yield:12–16 slices
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for crust
24 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
3/4 cup granulated sugar, for filling
3 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup Nutella
1/3 cup chocolate or vanilla protein powder
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup Nutella, for topping
1/2 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted, optional
Extra chopped pistachios for garnish, optional
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Press firmly into the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool slightly and reduce oven to 325°F (165°C).
Beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar until smooth. Mix in Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup Nutella, protein powder, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low just until incorporated. Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.
For a water bath, wrap the springform pan securely in foil, place it in a roasting pan, and add hot water halfway up the sides.
Bake for 55–70 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still has a gentle wobble.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and cool the cheesecake inside for 1 hour. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Before serving, spread or drizzle 1/3 cup gently warmed Nutella over the cheesecake. Top with chopped pistachios and optional melted chocolate. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Do not overmix after adding the eggs, as excess air can contribute to cracking.
Add a few tablespoons of pistachio butter to the filling for stronger pistachio flavor.
For mini cheesecakes, divide among lined muffin cups and begin checking for doneness after 18–22 minutes.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Freeze individual untopped slices for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.