“I’m not much of a baker, but wanted to make something special when my in-laws visited.”

Instructions:

1. Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature: Remove all chilled ingredients from the refrigerator to allow them to reach room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth batter.
2. Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends up the sides of the pan.
3. Combine Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Cocoa and Espresso: Mix in the cocoa powder and espresso powder until well combined.
5. Incorporate Chocolate and Eggs: Whisk in the melted and slightly cooled dark chocolate. Then, add the eggs one at a time, whisking until each is fully incorporated.
6. Add Cream and Salt: Mix in the heavy cream and salt just until the batter is smooth.
7. Sift and Fold in Flour: Sift the flour into the batter and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will add too much air and affect the texture.
8. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is deeply browned and the center has only a slight jiggle.
9. Optional Broiling: For a more pronounced “burnt” top, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
10. Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for several hours or overnight until thoroughly chilled.
11. Serve: Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve.