1. Start by preparing your workspace. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
2. Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly and well blended. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined baking pan. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you make the filling.
3. For the cheesecake filling, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
4. Now, melt the dark chocolate chips along with the heavy cream. Use a microwave, and do this in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval until completely smooth. Let it cool slightly before adding to the cream cheese mixture.
5. Pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture. Blend it together until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
6. Carefully pour the luscious cheesecake filling over the chilled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it back in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, or until it’s fully set.
7. Once set, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into bite-sized squares or rectangles to serve.
8. Just before serving, finish them off with a sprinkling of dark chocolate shavings and a handful of fresh berries for a touch of color and extra flavor!
Nutritional Information:
Each bite-sized piece contains approximately 150 calories, 10g of fat, and 2g of protein, plus vitamins from the berries!
Time: Preparation time: 20 minutes | Chilling time: 4 hours