If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that blends decadence, elegance, and pure comfort, this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is about to become your new go-to! Imagine a velvety, chocolate-infused cheesecake nestled on a crisp chocolate cookie crust, crowned with a glossy layer of sweet-tart cherries. Every bite is a blissful balance of rich cocoa, creamy tang, and bright fruitiness. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake promises to impress and delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk ingredients! Each component here pulls its weight, building the irresistible layers, flavors, and textures that make this dessert truly memorable. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll be amazed at how they come together for maximum flavor and presentation.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the base, adding a deep, chocolatey crunch—use Oreos or any chocolate sandwich cookie for best results.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs for a firm, sliceable crust that won’t fall apart.
- Cream cheese: The star of the filling, cream cheese gives that signature creamy tang—make sure it’s well softened for extra smoothness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the richness of the cream cheese and chocolate.
- Large eggs: Each egg helps set the cheesecake and gives it a luscious, custardy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash boosts the flavor, tying together the chocolate and cherry beautifully.
- Sour cream: This secret ingredient adds a gentle tang and keeps the cheesecake extra moist and silky.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted and folded in, these give the filling its gorgeous chocolate swirl and decadence.
- Cherry pie filling: The crowning glory—spooned over the top for a glistening, fruity finish. Use canned for ease or homemade for a personal touch.
- Chocolate shavings or extra melted chocolate (optional): For garnish, these take your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake from beautiful to stunning.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, stir together the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until set, then let the crust cool while you work on the filling.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s incredibly smooth and creamy—this step is key for that dreamy texture! Add the sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, taking care to scrape down the bowl so everything is well blended. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, then gently fold in the melted (but not hot) semi-sweet chocolate. Your batter should be thick, glossy, and irresistible.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over your cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight jiggle—don’t worry, it will firm up as it cools. For best results and fewer cracks, place a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack during baking. When done, turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks and keeps your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake looking flawless.
Step 4: Chill to Perfection
Once the cheesecake has cooled in the oven, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, so each slice comes out clean and creamy. The anticipation is worth it!
Step 5: Top and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, spoon the cherry pie filling over the entire top of the cheesecake. If you want to go the extra mile, add a flourish of chocolate shavings or drizzle with extra melted chocolate. Slice, serve chilled, and enjoy the applause—this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is sure to steal the show!
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Garnishes
Topping your cheesecake can be as simple or as fancy as you like! A generous spoonful of cherry pie filling is classic, but chocolate shavings, curls, or a drizzle of more melted chocolate add a professional touch. If you’re feeling extra, a dollop of whipped cream on the side never hurts. Fresh cherries make a lovely seasonal flourish too.
Side Dishes
While the Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is easily the star, you can round out your dessert table with a bowl of fresh berries, a crisp biscotti, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A cup of strong coffee or espresso also pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness and letting every flavor shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable presentation, try slicing the cheesecake into petite squares for a dessert buffet, or serve in parfait glasses for an elegant twist—layer cubes of cheesecake with extra cherries and a sprinkle of cookie crumbs. Mini cheesecakes baked in muffin tins are perfect for parties, and look absolutely adorable topped with a single cherry and chocolate curl!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or special occasions.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cheesecake (either whole or in individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. If possible, add the cherry topping after thawing for the best texture and appearance.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly softer texture, let slices sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture and cause the filling to become rubbery. For a warm chocolate drizzle, gently heat extra melted chocolate on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I make Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this cheesecake is even better when made a day in advance. Chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, so you’ll have perfect, neat slices ready to go for any occasion.
What’s the best way to prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Cracks can be avoided by not over-mixing the batter, baking at a gentle temperature, and cooling the cheesecake slowly. Placing a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack during baking adds moisture to the oven and helps prevent those pesky cracks from forming.
Can I use homemade cherry topping instead of canned?
Definitely! Simmer fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice until thick and glossy. This homemade touch adds a bright, tangy flavor and lets you adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Can I use a different type Dessert
Of course! While chocolate cookies provide that classic deep cocoa flavor, you can try graham crackers, chocolate graham crackers, or even vanilla wafers for a twist. Just keep the measurements the same and enjoy experimenting.
Is Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use standard cream cheese and chocolate without added gelatin or animal rennet. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re serving guests with dietary preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration in every slice! I hope you’re as excited to try it as I am to share it. Gather your ingredients, invite your favorite people, and get ready for a truly memorable treat. If you bake this, don’t forget to savor every bite—you’ve earned it!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake featuring a chocolate cookie crust, a luscious chocolate-infused cream cheese filling, and a vibrant cherry topping. Perfect for celebrations and holiday desserts, this decadent treat combines the best of chocolate and cherry flavors in a smooth, baked cheesecake.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted and slightly cooled)
For the topping:
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
- Optional chocolate shavings or extra melted chocolate for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Gently fold in the melted chocolate until evenly combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Add topping and serve: Before serving, spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- To prevent cracking, place a pan of hot water on the lower oven rack during baking.
- For a homemade cherry topping, simmer fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
