Galactic Oreo Cheesecake with Cosmic Drip
A sophisticated, galaxy-inspired Oreo cheesecake featuring a three-temperature technique for flawless texture and a visually stunning cosmic ganache drip. Ideal for themed celebrations, this intermediate-level recipe blends classic cheesecake mastery with innovative baking science.
Ingredients
- 24 Oreo cookies Regular or Double Stuf
- 5 tablespoons unsalted melted butter
- 680 g 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream 35% fat
- Substitutions and detailed notes available on request.
Instructions
- Phase 1: The Galactic Foundation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap a 9-inch springform pan base with heavy-duty foil.
- Pulse Oreo cookies in a food processor until coarse crumbs form (texture like black sand).
- Mix crumbs with melted butter; press firmly into pan bottom for a compact crust.
- Phase 2: The Cosmic Filling
- Beat room-temperature cream cheese on medium for 3-4 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add sugar, beat 2 more minutes until lightened.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined—avoid over-mixing.
- Beat in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth and flowing.
- Phase 3: The Water Bath Baking Method
- Place springform pan in larger roasting pan; pour filling over crust.
- Pour hot water into roasting pan halfway up springform sides.
- Bake 50-55 minutes until edges set and center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off oven, crack door open, cool cheesecake in oven for 1 hour.
- Phase 4: The Cosmic Drip Creation
- After chilling overnight, heat heavy cream until simmering; pour over chocolate chips.
- Let sit 2 minutes, whisk until smooth and glossy at 80-85°F.
- Drip ganache around edges and fill top surface using a squeeze bottle or spoon.
- Work quickly; ganache sets in about 5 minutes. Vary drip lengths for a natural cosmic look.
Notes
Make ahead: Prepare entire cheesecake 24-48 hours in advance; add ganache on serving day. For a keto alternative, substitute crust and sugar as detailed in recipe variations. Use a kitchen scale and digital thermometer for best results. Proper cooling and gentle mixing prevent cracks. For perfect slices, chill cheesecake 4+ hours and slice with a warm, clean knife or dental floss. Store refrigerated up to 5 days; freeze slices up to 3 months. Pair with late-harvest Riesling or ruby port for ideal flavor balance.
