If you are a dessert lover who adores the perfect harmony of rich chocolate and vibrant fruit, this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe will become your new obsession. Imagine a silky cream cheese filling infused with melted dark chocolate, studded with juicy fresh cherries, all resting on a crumbly chocolate cookie crust. Topped with a luscious cherry-chocolate ganache that shines with flavor and gloss, it’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make and always dazzles guests. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet treat any day, this cheesecake brings warmth, indulgence, and a little bit of magic to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe plays a key role, blending together to create a balance of textures and flavors that will wow your palate. From the chocolate cookie crumbs that form a firm base to the fresh cherries adding bursts of natural sweetness, each element is essential and straightforward to gather.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (1½ cups): Provides a rich, chocolaty foundation with a satisfying crunch that contrasts the creamy filling.
- Melted butter (¼ cup): Binds the crumbs together into a firm crust that holds up beautifully.
- Full-fat cream cheese (24 oz, softened): The creamy star ingredient delivering that classic cheesecake texture.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just enough without overpowering the chocolate and cherry flavors.
- Eggs (3): Give structure and help the cheesecake set with a silky smooth consistency.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds subtle tanginess and moisture, balancing richness and enhancing texture.
- Dark chocolate (8 oz, melted): Infuses deep chocolate flavor into the filling, making every bite decadent.
- Fresh cherries (1 cup, pitted and halved): Bring bursts of bright, fruity sweetness and a lovely texture contrast.
- Cherry preserves (½ cup): Creates a glossy, flavorful topping that intensifies the cherry experience.
- Dark chocolate (4 oz, melted for ganache): Combined with preserves for a smooth, shiny finish that captures the eye and taste buds.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This base will provide a rich, chocolatey crunch to complement the creamy cheesecake filling, so make sure it’s packed tightly.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this is the foundation of your luscious filling. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently just until each is incorporated to avoid overbeating, which can lead to cracks. Then, fold in the sour cream and melted dark chocolate carefully, ensuring the filling is fully blended and silky.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Cherries
Gently fold the pitted and halved fresh cherries into the batter, taking care not to break them up. These juicy bursts of fruit will add delightful pops of flavor and texture throughout the cheesecake, making every slice a harmonious blend of chocolate and cherry.
Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath
Pour the cherry-studded filling evenly over the prepared crust. Place the springform pan into a larger pan filled with hot water, creating a water bath that will gently cook the cheesecake and prevent cracking. Bake for about 60 minutes or until the center is slightly wobbly and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This gentle baking method is the secret to a perfectly smooth, creamy cheesecake.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly inside for one hour—this helps prevent cracks. Afterward, refrigerate it uncovered for at least six hours, or preferably overnight, so the cheesecake fully sets and the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Add the Cherry-Chocolate Ganache
For the finishing touch, melt the cherry preserves together with melted dark chocolate to create a glossy ganache. Spread this luscious topping over the chilled cheesecake, adding a shiny, flavorful layer that perfectly complements the rich filling beneath. This step adds a stunning final flourish that makes this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, garnish the cheesecake with a few fresh cherries on top or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. This simple addition enhances both the visual appeal and the fruity-chocolate experience, making each slice absolutely irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair this decadent cheesecake with lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the richness. A light, fruity salad with citrus notes can also provide a refreshing counterpoint, rounding out your dessert spread beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
You can slice the cheesecake into neat wedges and serve them individually drizzled with extra cherry preserves or chocolate sauce. For a fun twist, turn it into mini parfaits by layering chunks of cheesecake with cherry compote and whipped cream in clear glasses—perfect for gatherings and showing off the stunning layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake keeps best in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy this indulgent treat without any fuss.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cheesecake securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to two months without losing its luscious texture or flavor. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
Reheating
Cheesecake is usually best served chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, let it come to room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect texture; instead, a gentle warming in a low oven for a few minutes can soften the ganache slightly without compromising the cheesecake.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cherries work well if fresh aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the cheesecake’s texture.
What if I don’t have a water bath?
You can bake the cheesecake without a water bath, but to reduce the risk of cracks, bake it at a slightly lower temperature and don’t overmix the batter. Alternatively, placing a pan of water on the oven rack below can provide some moisture.
Can I substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with graham cracker crumbs?
Absolutely! Graham crackers offer a lighter base that pairs nicely with the chocolate-cherry filling, though the crust will be less chocolatey and more subtly sweet.
How important is the cream cheese temperature?
Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth batter. If it’s too cold, lumps may form and mixing will be uneven. Allow it to come to room temperature before starting for best results.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs or graham cracker crumbs for the crust, ensuring all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free or labeled accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a rich, indulgent dessert to your table that feels both special and approachable. Its balance of chocolate and fruit, creamy texture, and stunning presentation make it a beloved crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how magical homemade cheesecake can be!
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Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 7 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, featuring a chocolate cookie crumb crust, smooth cream cheese filling infused with dark chocolate and fresh cherries, and topped with a luscious cherry-chocolate ganache. Perfect for decadent dessert lovers, this cheesecake offers a harmonious blend of chocolate and fruit flavors baked to perfection in a water bath for a silky texture.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs or graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
Filling
- 24 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 oz dark chocolate, melted
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
Topping
- ½ cup cherry preserves
- 4 oz dark chocolate, melted for ganache
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Make the Crust: Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter, then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition to keep a smooth batter.
- Incorporate Sour Cream and Chocolate: Stir in the sour cream followed by the melted dark chocolate until the filling is fully combined and uniform in color.
- Fold in Cherries: Gently fold in the pitted and halved fresh cherries to distribute them evenly throughout the filling.
- Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Prepare Water Bath: Place the springform pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water to create a water bath; this helps prevent cracking during baking.
- Bake Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the center is slightly wobbly and reaches 145°F on a thermometer.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside gently for 1 hour to prevent sudden temperature changes.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours to fully set and develop its flavors.
- Make and Spread Ganache Topping: Melt the cherry preserves and dark chocolate together, then spread this glossy, flavorful ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Using a water bath helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking during baking.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill for a minimum of 6 hours; overnight chilling yields the best texture.
- Fresh cherries add moisture and tartness; ensure they are pitted properly before folding in.
- Use a thermometer to check doneness; the center should be slightly wobbly but cooked through.
- To remove the cheesecake easily, run a knife around the edges after cooling before releasing the springform.
