Irresistible Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Irresistible Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe For Sweet Tooths

Indulge in a cherry chocolate cheesecake that promises pure bliss with every creamy, rich bite.

Smooth cream cheese mingles with deep cocoa notes for an irresistible dessert experience.

Bursts of sweet cherries add vibrant color and tangy contrast against the velvety backdrop.

chocolate crumble crust provides a delightful crunch that keeps you coming back for more.

Elegant yet approachable, this dessert works magic for special occasions or spontaneous sweet cravings.

Delicate swirls of dark chocolate and ruby-red cherries create a visual masterpiece that feels like pure luxury.

You won’t be able to resist diving fork-first into this dreamy, decadent creation.

How to Bake and Chill Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

How to Bake and Chill Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Equipment

Arrange a 9-inch springform pan and preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth blending.

Step 2: Create Chocolate Cookie Crust

  • Chocolate cookie crumbs
  • Melted butter

Crush cookies into fine crumbs and mix thoroughly with melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan, creating an even layer.

Step 3: Whip Cream Cheese Base

  • Cream cheese
  • Sugar

Beat cream cheese and sugar using an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining.

Step 4: Incorporate Chocolate Elements

  • Cocoa powder
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Melted chocolate

Add cocoa powder and mix.

Introduce eggs one at a time, blending after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and melted chocolate until mixture is uniform and silky.

Step 5: Blend Final Filling Component

  • Sour cream

Gently fold sour cream into the chocolate cheesecake mixture, ensuring complete integration without overmixing.

Step 6: Bake Cheesecake

Pour filling over prepared crust.

Bake for 55-60 minutes until center is slightly jiggly but set.

Step 7: Rest Cheesecake

Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside for one hour.

This prevents cracking and ensures smooth texture.

Step 8: Chill and Set

Refrigerate cheesecake for minimum 4 hours or overnight for optimal flavor development.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top cheesecake with cherry pie filling just before serving. Slice and enjoy this decadent dessert.

Tips for Smooth Texture and Flavor Balance

  • Chill the springform pan beforehand to help the crust set perfectly and prevent crumbling when slicing.
  • Carefully fold ingredients gently to maintain a smooth, creamy texture without overmixing the batter.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like cream cheese and eggs to ensure even mixing and prevent lumps in the cheesecake.
  • Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish with hot water to prevent cracking and promote even baking.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap traditional cookie crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour-based crust.

Creative Flavor Ideas to Try

  • Gluten-Free Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake: Replace cookie crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of sour cream, and replace eggs with flax eggs.
  • Low-Sugar Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, use sugar-free chocolate, and top with fresh cherries instead of pie filling.
  • No-Bake Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: Skip baking by using gelatin or agar-agar to set the filling, creating a cool and creamy dessert perfect for summer.

Serving Suggestions for Entertaining

  • Romantic Date Night Dessert: Create an intimate evening by serving this luxurious cheesecake with two spoons, dimmed lights, and soft background music. The rich chocolate and sweet cherries make it perfect for sharing.
  • Summer Garden Party Showstopper: Present slices on elegant white plates garnished with fresh cherries and chocolate shavings. Add a mint leaf for a pop of color that complements the dessert's deep tones.
  • Decadent Breakfast Indulgence: Cut small squares and pair with strong espresso or cappuccino. This unexpected morning treat transforms an ordinary breakfast into a gourmet experience that feels like a delightful secret.
  • Afternoon Tea Centerpiece: Slice the cheesecake into delicate wedges and arrange on a tiered serving stand. Accompany with Earl Grey tea and lace doilies for a sophisticated presentation that elevates the dessert.

Best Storage Practices for Cheesecake

  • Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent moisture and odors from seeping in.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for extra protection.
  • Refrigerate cheesecake for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor integrity.
  • Freeze whole or sliced cheesecake for up to 2 months by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

  • Is this cheesecake difficult to make?

Not at all! The recipe is straightforward and requires basic baking skills. Follow the steps carefully, and you’ll create a professional-looking dessert with minimal effort.

  • Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute dark, milk, or semi-sweet chocolate based on your preference. Just ensure you melt it completely before adding to the cheesecake mixture for a smooth texture.

  • Why do I need to let the cheesecake sit in the turned-off oven?

This technique prevents cracking by allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually. The slow cooling helps the cake set evenly and maintains a creamy, crack-free surface.

Decadence in Every Bite: Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Decadence in Every Bite: Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: This cherry chocolate cheesecake transforms an ordinary gathering into a spectacular celebration with its rich, luxurious flavor that appeals to all ages and tastes.
  • Master Impressive Baking Skills: Despite seeming complex, the recipe follows simple steps that help home bakers feel confident and professional while creating a stunning dessert that looks like it came from a high-end bakery.
  • Customize with Easy Variations: Bakers can personalize this dessert by switching cherry topping with fresh berries, adding chocolate shavings, or experimenting with different cookie crumb bases to match personal preferences.
  • Perfect for Special Moments: Whether hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or preparing a romantic dessert, this cheesecake elevates any occasion with its decadent chocolate and sweet cherry combination that guarantees delighted guests.

What You Need to Make This Rich Cheesecake

Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: Classic cookie base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crumbs together and creates a solid crust.
Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary creamy component that gives cheesecake its signature smooth texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the rich cream cheese flavor.
  • Cocoa Powder: Introduces a deep chocolate taste and rich dark color to the cheesecake.
  • Large Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the filling together.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet notes.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the cheesecake.
  • Melted Chocolate: Delivers an intense chocolate flavor and contributes to the creamy texture.
Topping:
  • Cherry Pie Filling: Adds a sweet and fruity contrast to the rich chocolate cheesecake.
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Irresistible Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Irresistible Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe


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4.8 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Rich cherry chocolate cheesecake blends creamy Philadelphia cream cheese with luscious chocolate and fresh cherries. Dessert lovers will savor each silky bite of this elegant French-inspired treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Flavoring and Seasoning:

  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Crush chocolate cookies into fine crumbs and blend thoroughly with melted butter, creating a uniform mixture.
  2. Firmly press the cookie-butter blend into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even, compact base.
  3. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese and sugar until achieving a silky, lump-free consistency.
  4. Gradually incorporate cocoa powder, carefully adding eggs one at a time while mixing to maintain a smooth texture.
  5. Gently fold in vanilla extract, ensuring complete integration with the cheesecake batter.
  6. Melt chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, then blend into the mixture with sour cream until fully incorporated.
  7. Transfer the velvety chocolate cheesecake batter into the prepared crust-lined pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
  8. Bake at 325F (163C) for 55-60 minutes, watching for slight jiggling in the center when gently shaken.
  9. Switch off the oven and allow cheesecake to rest inside for one hour, preventing surface cracking.
  10. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours or ideally overnight to set completely.
  11. Before serving, generously spread cherry pie filling across the top, creating a vibrant, glossy finish.

Notes

  • Chill cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter that blends perfectly.
  • Use high-quality dark chocolate for a rich, intense chocolate flavor that elevates the entire cheesecake experience.
  • Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath baking method, keeping the crust crisp and preventing cracks.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap cookie crumbs with ground almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 385 kcal
  • Sugar: 25 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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