If you have a sweet tooth and love the perfect blend of rich flavors, I cannot wait to share this dreamy Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe with you. This dessert is a glorious marriage of velvety cream cheese, bittersweet chocolate, and luscious cherries that will dance on your tongue with every bite. The chocolate cookie crust adds a crispy depth while the cherry topping brings refreshing sweetness and vibrant color, making it an absolute showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to close friends or enjoying it by yourself, this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe is guaranteed to become an instant favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe is a joy because the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet incredibly important. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavors, creaminess, and texture that you’ll fall in love with.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Provides a rich and chocolatey base that’s crunchy and flavorful.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the luscious cheesecake filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients together perfectly and adds a smooth richness.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the show, creating that creamy, tangy body in the cheesecake.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Infuses a deep chocolate flavor directly into the cheesecake filling.
- Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set flawlessly in the oven.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and makes the texture incredibly smooth and luxurious.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled: Swirls of melted chocolate create pockets of intense chocolaty goodness.
- Cherry pie filling: The crowning glory, offering sweet, juicy bursts of cherry on top of every slice.
- Whipped cream (optional): A light and airy finish that complements the richness beautifully.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix together the chocolate cookie crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter in a medium-sized bowl. This combination is your base layer, packing in chocolatey crunch and a touch of sweetness to contrast the creamy filling. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust, then let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the cheesecake filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and free of lumps. Add 1 cup of granulated sugar along with the unsweetened cocoa powder, beating until everything is perfectly blended. The cocoa gives a rich chocolate depth that makes this cheesecake anything but ordinary. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain that creamy consistency. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream for a smooth, tangy lift.
Step 3: Combine chocolate and filling
Now for the magic touch—fold in the melted semi-sweet chocolate chips carefully until fully combined. This swirl of melted chocolate throughout the filling will create decadent pockets of chocolatey bliss that will make each bite so special.
Step 4: Bake your cheesecake
Pour the luscious batter over your cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is just about set but still slightly jiggly. To avoid cracks, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for one full hour. This gentle cooling process helps perfect the texture before chilling.
Step 5: Chill and add the cherry topping
Remove your cheesecake from the oven after cooling and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. When you’re ready to serve, generously spoon the cherry pie filling over the top for that bright, sweet contrast. Add whipped cream if you like, for an extra cloud of indulgence.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe presentation, consider garnishing with fresh cherries, a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder. These simple touches not only make your cheesecake more visually appealing but also enhance the cherry and chocolate flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
A slice of this cheesecake pairs wonderfully with light fruit salads or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The freshness and cool creaminess from sides complement the rich, indulgent texture and flavor, providing a balanced dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, try serving your Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe in individual mini jars or ramekins layered with extra cherry filling and chocolate crumbs on top. This personalized approach makes dessert feel special and is perfect for parties or intimate dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cherry chocolate cheesecake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it stays fresh for up to 4-5 days, preserving those luscious flavors and creamy texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake securely with foil and plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. Frozen cheesecake lasts up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator to maintain its delightful texture.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow slices to sit out for 15-30 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors without melting the cherry topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be simmered with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a homemade topping that is both fresh and flavorful. This adds a personal touch but requires a bit more prep time.
Is it necessary to have a springform pan for this recipe?
While a springform pan is ideal because it allows for easy removal without damaging your cheesecake’s beautiful sides, you can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper for easier removal.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with a gluten-free chocolate cookie crumb alternative, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
How can I prevent cracks on top of my cheesecake?
The key is gentle cooling; letting the cheesecake cool inside the oven with the door slightly open helps avoid sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking.
Can I prepare the crust in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare and bake the crust a day ahead, keeping it covered at room temperature until ready to assemble the filling. This makes your baking process smoother on the day you serve.
Final Thoughts
I hope after reading through this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe, you feel inspired to dive into creating this heavenly dessert. It’s a tantalizing combination of luscious chocolate, tangy cream cheese, and juicy cherries that never fails to impress and delight. Trust me, once you try it, this cheesecake will earn a treasured spot in your dessert collection and become a go-to for celebrations and cozy nights alike. Happy baking!
Print
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This decadent Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake combines the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy cheesecake with a delightful cherry topping. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, it features a chocolate cookie crumb crust, smooth chocolate-infused cheesecake filling, and a sweet cherry pie filling topping for an irresistible dessert experience.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
Topping
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 1 cup sugar and the cocoa powder, mixing until well blended and uniform in color.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Next, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream to add flavor and creaminess.
- Incorporate Melted Chocolate: Gently fold the melted and slightly cooled semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter until fully combined, ensuring an even chocolate flavor throughout.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: After baking, turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking. Then, remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Add Topping and Serve: Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Slice and enjoy your cherry chocolate cheesecake!
Notes
- For an extra-rich crust, substitute chocolate cookie crumbs with crushed chocolate graham crackers or chocolate sandwich cookies.
- Use room temperature ingredients to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
- For a homemade cherry topping, simmer pitted fresh cherries with sugar and cornstarch until thickened.
