Gluten-Free Chocolate Treat

Category: Let's Bake Something Wonderful

A velvety gluten-free chocolate cake made with cream cheese, sour cream, and a mix of dark chocolates. Pure indulgence!

Rose
By Sophie Parker Sophie Parker
Updated on Mon, 05 May 2025 18:44:35 GMT
A decadent slice of chocolate cake with a strawberry and chocolate squares on a white plate. Save
A decadent slice of chocolate cake with a strawberry and chocolate squares on a white plate. | tastybysophie.com

I've gotta share my top chocolate cheesecake that happens to be gluten free. I found this version during my kitchen adventures while trying to make something amazing for my friend with celiac disease. The outcome? A truly dreamy chocolate treat that's so smooth and rich you won't even think about missing a crust.

Beyond Simple Chocolate

What makes this cheesecake work is how uncomplicated it is. With no crust to deal with, we can put all our attention on building an outstanding chocolate filling. Everyone's shocked when I tell them it's gluten free. It feels like silk on your tongue and the chocolate taste hugs you warmly with each bite.

Excellent Components

I've figured out through lots of testing that good stuff makes this recipe shine. Using two chocolate varieties builds amazing flavor while cream cheese and eggs at room temp give you that dreamy smoothness. I always go for the fancy vanilla extract - it's totally worth the extra money.

Insider Tricks

I've learned some things that make this recipe work every time. Don't rush warming up your ingredients - it's super important for getting that awesome texture. I cut my chocolate super small so it melts without any trouble. And always take your time with mixing - each item needs to blend in just right.

Oven Wizardry

You really need that water bath technique. I just wrap my pan in aluminum foil and set it in hot water. This soft heat creates an unbelievable texture. When it's finished cooking, I keep the door open a bit with the cake inside, watching it slowly settle into something wonderful.

A rich chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries, displayed on a decorative cake stand with chocolate pieces nearby. Save
A rich chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries, displayed on a decorative cake stand with chocolate pieces nearby. | tastybysophie.com

Adding Your Touch

Some days I go basic and let the chocolate do all the talking. Other times I fancy it up with some fresh fruit or a little splash of chocolate booze. My top choice though? A big spoonful of whipped cream and some chocolate flakes scattered on top - just amazing.

Storage Smarts

This cake actually tastes better after chilling overnight. The flavors get stronger and richer, making it even more yummy. I keep mine in a sealed container and if there's somehow any left, it freezes great for when you need chocolate right away.

Fixing Common Problems

I always check my pan for drips first - it's saved me so much trouble. If your pan might leak, just use a regular pie dish instead - works great. And remember to take your time - don't hurry the mixing part or the cooling down part.

Party Perfect

This cheesecake has turned into my go-to for big events. It looks fancy enough for dinner parties but feels just right at backyard gatherings too. Seeing everyone's reaction when they taste that first bite makes all the work totally worth it.

For Every Guest

What I really love is how this dessert works for everyone. My friends who can't eat gluten feel great having something fancy made just for them, and everyone else just thinks they're eating an awesome chocolate cheesecake. It's perfect for everybody.

A chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a glass cake stand. Save
A chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a glass cake stand. | tastybysophie.com

Personal Touches

Feel free to play around with different tastes. Sometimes I mix in some mashed raspberries or sprinkle some sea salt on top. The main recipe works so well you can really try different things with it. Each new twist makes it feel like a completely different dessert.

How It All Started

This recipe began as a way to make something awesome for friends who can't have gluten. It's changed over many baking sessions into something I'm really proud of. I've found that our best cooking often comes from pushing ourselves to try new approaches.

Best Drink Matches

Nothing beats having this cheesecake with a nice coffee or glass of port. The deep chocolate flavors work so well with both. On cold nights I love serving it alongside homemade hot cocoa topped with fresh whipped cream.

Must-Have Tools

That springform pan will become something you can't live without for this recipe. I've used mine for ages and it always works great. A good electric mixer really matters too for getting that smooth mix. These kitchen gadgets are worth buying - they'll help you for years.

Total Luxury

This cheesecake feels really special when you eat it. It's somehow rich but not heavy, fluffy but still creamy. Every mouthful slowly melts, filling your taste buds with amazing chocolate flavor. It's completely decadent in the very best way.

A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with a strawberry and a piece of chocolate, served on a white plate. Save
A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with a strawberry and a piece of chocolate, served on a white plate. | tastybysophie.com

Watch Your Heat

The trick to no cracks is all about controlling the heat. Getting everything to room temp and cooling it down slowly makes all the difference. I love peeking through the oven window as the cheesecake slowly settles into something amazing.

Gifts From The Heart

This cheesecake makes such a great present. I often bake it for birthday celebrations or as thank you gifts. Watching people's faces light up with that first taste brings me tons of happiness. Food really is the best way to show someone you care about them.

Chocolate Explorations

I try different chocolate mixes sometimes. Dark chocolate gives a stronger taste while milk chocolate makes it sweeter. Every change teaches me new stuff about this favorite recipe. There are so many ways to make it your own.

Bakers United

There's nothing better than watching others fall for this recipe. When you try it, snap some pictures and let me know how it went. It's awesome how a single recipe can bring so many folks together through the fun of baking.

Start Your Journey

Now it's time for you to create this chocolate masterpiece. Go slow, enjoy making it and most importantly have a good time. Just remember every amazing baker started as a beginner and this recipe is a fantastic place to begin your cheesecake adventures.

A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a white plate. Save
A slice of chocolate cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries sits on a white plate. | tastybysophie.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Why use the water bath?

Keeps the baking temperature steady and prevents cracks from forming.

→ How do I test doneness?

Avoid inserting anything into the cake to prevent cracking.

→ Why are room temperature ingredients important?

Warm cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.

→ How do I stop water leaks?

Check the springform pan for leaks, or add a pie dish for extra safety.

→ What’s the best way to store it?

Chill it uncovered in the fridge overnight to avoid moisture on the top layer.

Rich Chocolate Cake

A smooth, rich chocolate treat that's naturally gluten-free. Features a blend of chocolates for a perfect balance of flavor.

Prep Time
25 min
Cook Time
65 min
Total Time
90 min
By Sophie Parker: Sophie Parker

Category: Sweet Kitchen

Skill Level: Advanced

Cuisine: American

Yield: 16 Servings (One cheesecake, 10 inches)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 2 teaspoons of vanilla.
02 8 ounces of bittersweet chocolate.
03 8 ounces of semisweet chocolate.
04 40 ounces of cream cheese.
05 16 ounces of sour cream.
06 6 eggs, large.
07 2 cups of sugar, granulated.
08 Strawberries, if you'd like.
09 A pinch of salt (about ¼ teaspoon).

Steps

Step 01

Let cream cheese soften. Heat oven to 400°F. Set up a water bath and ready your springform pan.

Step 02

Start with one cream cheese block, beating until it's creamy. Add one egg at a time, mixing as you go.

Step 03

Melt both types of chocolate. Stir them into the batter along with the other ingredients. Mix everything for 7 minutes.

Step 04

Bake in a water bath at 400°F for 10 minutes, then lower to 375°F and continue baking for 45-55 minutes.

Step 05

Let the cheesecake sit in the oven for an hour to cool. Chill in the fridge overnight before slicing.

Notes

  1. Check your springform pan to avoid leaks.
  2. Skip covering if fridge odors aren't an issue.
  3. Store in the freezer for up to 3 weeks.

Required Tools

  • Springform pan, 10 inches.
  • A roasting pan for the water bath.
  • Mixer to blend the ingredients.

Allergy Information

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains dairy.
  • Contains eggs.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

These details are provided for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 590
  • Fats: 43 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Proteins: 4 g