Espresso Powder

• The most effective way to add espresso to cheesecake is to use instant espresso granules. This allows you to create a stronger espresso flavor without adding much liquid, which keeps the ratio of wet and dry ingredients in better balance. Add the granules directly to the cheesecake filling, or mix the granules into melting chocolate and stir into the mix. Alternatively, mix one to two tablespoons of espresso powder with one tablespoon of water, depending on how strong an espresso flavor you desire.

Layered Cheesecake

• Create a cafe au lait or cappuccino cheesecake by adding espresso to half of the filling mixture. Spread the espresso-laced filling on the prepared crust. Then, top with the remaining filling to create the appearance of milk. To alter the thickness of the layers, add espresso to larger or smaller amounts of filling. Alternatively, add espresso to the entire filling, and, once the cheesecake is baked and cooled, spread a thin layer of white chocolate ganache over the top.

Espresso and Chocolate Cheesecake

• Espresso and chocolate pair especially well, as the espresso intensifies the chocolate flavor. Pair the two in a cheesecake for a mocha-flavored dessert. Melt chocolate over a double boiler and mix in espresso powder, then cool and add to your filling. Alternatively, melt chocolate with heavy cream and set aside. Pour the espresso filling over your prepared crust in three batches. In between each layer, and on top, drizzle the chocolate mixture. Before baking, run a knife through the batter in several directions to swirl the chocolate throughout.

Additional Ideas

• Try adding flavors to your cheesecake filling that you would enjoy with espresso, or that you find in coffee shops. Hazelnut, orange chocolate and raspberry all pair well with espresso. Once the cheesecake is baked, decorate it with chocolate-covered espresso beans pressed around the top edge. Or, serve the cheesecake with whipped cream speckled with ground espresso beans. Shave white or bittersweet chocolate over the top of your cheesecake for an elegant look.