Decadent Hazelnut Cheesecake

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F. For crust, in a small bowl combine the 1 cup ground hazelnuts and melted butter. Press mixture evenly onto bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Step 2

For filling, in a large bowl combine cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until fluffy. Add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Stir in the 2/3 cup chopped hazelnuts and the 1/4 cup liqueur. Pour filling over crust, spreading evenly.

Step 3

Bake about 1 hour or until a 2 1/2-inch area around outside edge appears set and center appears nearly set when gently shaken. Cool in pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Using a knife, loosen edge of cheesecake from side of pan; cool for 30 minutes. Remove side of pan; cool cheesecake completely on rack (about 1 1/4 hours). Cover and chill for 4 to 24 hours.

Step 4

To serve, in a medium bowl combine whipping cream and the 2 tablespoons liqueur. Beat on medium speed until soft peaks form (tips curl). Top each serving of cheesecake with whipped cream.