Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Here's a rich and creamy Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake recipe that's bound to become your new favorite dessert. With a luscious chocolate crust, velvety cheesecake filling, and a glossy cherry topping, every bite is pure indulgence.

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I first made this cheesecake for a family gathering, and it disappeared within minutes. The combination of smooth chocolate and tangy cherries is simply irresistible, making it a must-have for special occasions or just because you’re craving something sweet.

Why You'll Love This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Get ready to fall in love with this decadent dessert. Whether you're a cheesecake lover or a chocolate fanatic, this recipe offers the best of both worlds.

First off, it’s incredibly rich and creamy. The chocolate cheesecake filling melts in your mouth, perfectly balanced by the bright cherry topping.

It’s also easier to make than you think. While it looks like a bakery-style masterpiece, this cheesecake comes together with simple steps, and no water bath is needed.

The combination of chocolate and cherries is timeless. The deep cocoa flavor complements the tart fruit topping, creating a balanced bite that keeps you coming back for more.

Finally, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner, a birthday party, or just a quiet night in, this cheesecake will always impress.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this cheesecake lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating a luxurious texture and flavor.

The crust is made from crushed chocolate cookies, providing a deep cocoa base that complements the creamy filling. Using a food processor ensures a fine crumb, but you can also crush the cookies in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.

Cream cheese is the heart of any cheesecake, and full-fat cream cheese works best here. It should be at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.

Cocoa powder and melted chocolate give the filling its deep chocolate flavor. Using high-quality chocolate makes a big difference in taste, so opt for a good brand with at least 60% cocoa.

Cherries bring the perfect contrast to the rich filling. You can use fresh cherries when in season, but canned or frozen work just as well. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess liquid in the topping.

A touch of vanilla extract and sour cream enhances the flavor and creaminess of the cheesecake. The sour cream adds a slight tang that balances the richness beautifully.

How To Make This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Making this cheesecake is simpler than you might think, and the results are worth every step.

Start by preparing the crust. Combine crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.

For the filling, beat softened cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, cocoa powder, and melted chocolate. Once combined, mix in eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract. Be careful not to overmix, as too much air can cause cracks in the cheesecake.

Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake at a low temperature to ensure an even texture, then turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door slightly open. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracks.

While the cheesecake cools, prepare the cherry topping. Cook cherries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice until they release their juices and thicken slightly. If you prefer a glossy finish, stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

Once the cheesecake is fully cooled and chilled, spread the cherry topping over the surface. Let it set in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing and serving.

Storage Options

This cheesecake stores beautifully, making it perfect for making ahead of time.

For refrigeration, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to five days.

If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

To reheat a slice slightly for a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so you can customize it to your taste preferences.

If you prefer a graham cracker crust, swap out the chocolate cookies for classic graham crackers. Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to maintain some chocolate flavor.

For a white chocolate version, replace the dark chocolate with melted white chocolate. This creates a creamier, slightly sweeter cheesecake that pairs beautifully with the tart cherries.

Looking for a boozy twist? Add a splash of cherry liqueur or amaretto to the cheesecake batter for extra depth of flavor.

For a nutty crunch, stir chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts into the crust or sprinkle them over the cherry topping.

If fresh cherries aren’t available, try using raspberry or blueberry topping instead. The tangy fruit flavors will still complement the rich chocolate cheesecake beautifully.

No matter how you customize it, this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pure chocolate-cherry bliss!

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