Velvety Gluten-Free Dessert

As seen on: Delicious Dessert Recipes

Decadent gluten-free chocolate cheesecake mixing both semisweet and bittersweet chocolate with velvety cream cheese and sour cream.

emilyscooks.com
Shared By Emily
Last revised on Sun, 11 May 2025 23:00:32 GMT
A chocolate cheesecake slice garnished with fresh strawberry and chocolate pieces served on a white plate. Save this
A chocolate cheesecake slice garnished with fresh strawberry and chocolate pieces served on a white plate. | emilyscooks.com

I stumbled on this amazing crustless chocolate cheesecake by accident while testing desserts for my friend with celiac disease. After many kitchen trials, I created this velvety dream that's naturally gluten free. Trust me, it's so decadent and smooth you'll never miss having a crust!

Beyond Simple Chocolate

What makes this treat stand out is how uncomplicated it is. Without fussing over a base, we can put all our love into that incredible chocolate filling. Guests always look shocked when I tell them it's gluten free. It feels like silk on your tongue, and the deep chocolate taste just surrounds you completely.

Top-Notch Components

After tons of testing, I've found that fancy ingredients really do matter here. Using two chocolate varieties creates amazing richness, while eggs and cream cheese at room temp give you that dreamy smoothness. I never skimp on good vanilla - it's totally worth the extra cash.

Foolproof Techniques

I've figured out a few tricks that guarantee success every time. Don't rush bringing stuff to room temperature - it's super important for texture. Cut your chocolate into tiny bits so it melts perfectly. And always follow the mixing order carefully since each addition needs proper attention.

Bath Time Brilliance

Using a water bath isn't optional - it's essential! I wrap aluminum foil around my pan and set it in warm water. This gentle cooking method creates that unbelievable texture. After baking, I prop the oven door open slightly and let the cake cool down gradually until it's absolutely perfect.

A smooth chocolate cheesecake garnished with ripe strawberries, presented on a fancy stand with chocolate chunks scattered nearby. Save this
A smooth chocolate cheesecake garnished with ripe strawberries, presented on a fancy stand with chocolate chunks scattered nearby. | emilyscooks.com

Personal Touches

Sometimes I serve it plain to showcase the chocolate's richness. Other days I fancy it up with berry toppings or a splash of chocolate booze. But my all-time favorite? A big spoonful of freshly whipped cream and some chocolate curls scattered on top - it's absolutely divine.

Storage Secrets

This cake actually tastes better the next day! The flavors really come together after chilling overnight. I keep mine in a sealed container, and any leftovers freeze wonderfully for those moments when chocolate cravings hit hard.

Quick Fixes

I always check my springform for drips before starting - it's saved me loads of trouble. If your pan tends to leak, just use a regular pie dish instead. And remember, don't hurry through the mixing or cooling steps - taking your time pays off big time.

Party Perfect

This dessert has become my signature for important events. It looks fancy enough for dinner parties but feels just right at casual get-togethers too. Watching people's reactions after their first taste makes all the work totally worthwhile.

For Everyone's Enjoyment

My favorite thing about this dessert is how it brings people together. My gluten-sensitive friends feel cared for with a fancy treat made specially for them, while others just know they're eating an incredible chocolate cheesecake. Everyone's happy!

A delicious chocolate cheesecake garnished with fresh strawberries displayed on a clear glass pedestal. Save this
A delicious chocolate cheesecake garnished with fresh strawberries displayed on a clear glass pedestal. | emilyscooks.com

Creative Variations

Feel free to change things up! Sometimes I mix in raspberry sauce or sprinkle some sea salt on top. The basic formula works so well that you can really get creative with different flavors. Each new twist feels like you've made something totally different.

Creation Journey

This dessert started as a way to make something amazing for friends who couldn't eat gluten. It's grown through many baking sessions into something I'm really proud of. I've found that our best cooking often happens when we push ourselves to think outside the box.

Ideal Companions

Nothing beats having this cheesecake with a strong coffee or a small glass of port. The chocolate notes work wonderfully with both drinks. On cold evenings I love serving slices alongside homemade hot cocoa topped with lots of whipped cream.

Must-Have Tools

A good springform pan will quickly become your favorite kitchen item for this treat. Mine has lasted years and never disappoints. You'll also need a decent electric mixer to get that super smooth mixture. These tools are smart purchases - they'll last forever.

Luxurious Experience

The feel of this cheesecake is truly something else. It's somehow rich yet airy, dense but silky smooth. Every mouthful slowly dissolves, flooding your taste buds with intense chocolate goodness. It's total luxury in dessert form.

A wedge of rich chocolate cheesecake garnished with a strawberry and chocolate piece, served on a white dish. Save this
A wedge of rich chocolate cheesecake garnished with a strawberry and chocolate piece, served on a white dish. | emilyscooks.com

Temperature Tricks

Avoiding cracks comes down to handling temperatures right. Room-temp ingredients and slow cooling are game-changers. I love peeking through the oven window while the cake gently settles and sets up beautifully.

Gift of Sweetness

This cheesecake makes an awesome present. I often bake it for birthday celebrations or thank-you gifts. Watching someone's face light up with that first bite brings me so much happiness. Food really is the best way to show people you care about them.

Chocolate Explorations

I'm always playing with different chocolate blends. Dark for intensity, milk for sweetness, or sometimes a mix of both. Each version teaches me something new about this favorite recipe. There are endless ways to switch things up.

Baking Together

There's something special about watching others fall for this recipe. When you make it, snap some pics and let me know how it went! It's amazing how a simple dessert can connect so many bakers through the joy of creating something delicious.

Your Turn Now

Time for you to whip up this chocolate wonder! Take it slow, enjoy each step, and have a blast making it. Just remember that all great bakers started somewhere, and this cheesecake is a fantastic way to begin your dessert-making journey.

A portion of chocolate cheesecake topped with juicy strawberries presented on a white plate. Save this
A portion of chocolate cheesecake topped with juicy strawberries presented on a white plate. | emilyscooks.com

Common Questions

→ Why use water bath?

Creates even heat distribution and stops cracks by keeping temperatures steady.

→ Can I test for doneness?

Never stick anything into your cheesecake as it'll make it crack.

→ Why room temperature ingredients?

Cream cheese at room temp will blend smoothly without lumps.

→ How do I prevent water leaks?

Check your springform pan before using it; put a pie dish underneath for extra safety.

→ How should I store it?

Let it cool in the fridge overnight without covering it to avoid moisture collecting on top.

Choc Cheesecake

A smooth, indulgent chocolate cheesecake without gluten. Created using dual chocolate varieties for the ultimate taste.

Preparation Time
25 Minutes
Cooking Time
65 Minutes
Overall Time
90 Minutes
Shared By: Emily

Meal Type: Desserts

Skill Level: Advanced

Cuisine Style: American

Makes: 16 Portions (1 10-inch round cake)

Special Diet: Vegetarian-Friendly, Made Without Gluten

What You’ll Need

01 items 40 ounces softened cream cheese.
02 items 6 big eggs.
03 items 8 ounces semisweet chocolate chips.
04 items 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate chunks.
05 items 2 cups white sugar.
06 items ¼ teaspoon table salt.
07 items 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract.
08 items 16 ounces tangy sour cream.
09 items Fresh strawberries if you want.

Steps To Make It

Step 01

Let cream cheese come to room temp. Heat oven to 400°F. Set up water bath and wrap your springform pan.

Step 02

Mix each cream cheese block until creamy. Then drop in eggs one by one.

Step 03

Melt both chocolates. Pour into your mix with other stuff. Beat everything for 7 minutes.

Step 04

Put in water bath for 10 minutes at 400°F, then lower to 375°F for another 45-55 minutes.

Step 05

Turn off oven and leave cake inside for an hour. Stick in fridge overnight before serving.

Extra Notes

  1. Check your pan for any leaks first.
  2. You can leave it uncovered if your fridge doesn't smell.
  3. Keeps in freezer up to 3 weeks.

Essential Tools

  • 10-inch springform baking pan.
  • Large roasting pan for water.
  • Electric mixer.

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens, and consult a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk products.
  • Has eggs.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Keep in mind, this data is an estimate and not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
  • Calories: 590
  • Fat Content: 43 grams
  • Total Carbs: 43 grams
  • Protein Content: 4 grams