If you’re craving an irresistible dessert that combines rich cocoa goodness with a burst of tangy fruit, this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe is the ultimate answer. Every bite offers a velvety cream cheese base swirled with melted chocolate, resting on a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, all crowned with luscious cherry pie filling. It’s a decadent treat that delivers the perfect harmony of sweet, smooth, and slightly tart flavors, making this cheesecake a guaranteed showstopper for any occasion or simply a cherished indulgence for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients that come together to create a dessert that’s anything but simple. Each element plays a vital role—from the crunchy chocolate cookie crumb crust to the creamy, chocolate-infused filling and the vibrant cherry topping that finishes it off with a refreshing pop of color and taste.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (1 ½ cups): Using Oreo crumbs without filling gives the crust a deep chocolate flavor and perfect crunch.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Binds the cookie crumbs into a sturdy, delicious base.
- Cream cheese (16 ounces, softened): The star of the filling, providing a luxuriously smooth, tangy texture.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds the right amount of sweetness to balance the tartness of the cream cheese.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Elevates creaminess and adds slight tang for depth.
- Large eggs (2): Bind and give structure to the filling without making it dense.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a warm aromatic note.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (½ cup, melted): Infuses the filling with rich chocolate flavor.
- Cherry pie filling (1 ½ cups): Topping that provides a juicy, fruity contrast.
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls (optional): For that elegant finishing touch.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated and hold together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating a solid base for your cheesecake. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes to set it perfectly, then set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Chocolate Filling
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps. Incorporate the sour cream and vanilla extract next, blending well to maintain that silky consistency. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing each just until combined to avoid overbeating, which could cause cracks later. Lastly, stir in the melted semi-sweet chocolate until fully incorporated, giving the filling its characteristic rich chocolate flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the luscious chocolate filling over your cooled crust, smoothing out the surface gently with a spatula. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look slightly puffed and the center is just set but still has a slight jiggle. Once baked, turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for an hour to avoid sudden temperature changes that cause cracks.
Step 4: Chill and Add the Cherry Topping
After it’s cooled, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set and intensify the flavors. When ready to serve, generously spoon the vibrant cherry pie filling across the top and add optional shaved chocolate or curls for that irresistible finishing flourish.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe even further, top it off with some freshly shaved dark or semi-sweet chocolate curls. The contrast between the glossy, rich chocolate and the bright cherries makes it look stunning. A sprig of fresh mint can also add a refreshing aroma and a pop of green to brighten the plate.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a bit of textural contrast, consider serving it alongside toasted almonds or freshly sliced seasonal berries, which add freshness and cut through the richness of the dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Try individual servings by slicing the cheesecake into small wedges and serving them on elegant dessert plates. Drizzle some cherry sauce around the edges or pipe a bit of whipped cream on top for a more sophisticated look. Or, turn this classic into a trifle by layering broken-up cheesecake chunks with cherries and whipped cream in clear glasses for a stunning, easy-to-eat presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake should always be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and moist. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days when properly covered. Make sure to let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing to avoid cracking.
Freezing
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe can easily be frozen if you want to enjoy it later. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or place individual slices in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its flavor or texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Since cheesecake is best served chilled, reheating is not typical. However, for a softer texture, you can let slices sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or briefly warm them in a low-heat oven (around 200°F or 90°C) for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the texture unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen cherries can be gently cooked down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to mimic pie filling consistency. This option offers a fresher, less sweet topping that pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate.
What type of chocolate works best for this cheesecake?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are perfect for balancing sweetness and bitterness. If you prefer a richer, more intense chocolate flavor, feel free to use dark chocolate chips instead.
How do I prevent cracking on the top of my cheesecake?
Overmixing the batter and rapid cooling are common causes of cracks. Be gentle when combining ingredients, and cool the cheesecake gradually by leaving it partially in the oven with the door cracked before refrigerating.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with a gluten-free version, such as gluten-free chocolate wafer crumbs, and ensure any other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How long should I chill the cheesecake before serving?
For the best flavor development and texture, chill the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, though overnight is ideal. This resting time allows the cheesecake to set perfectly and flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe is truly one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug wrapped in chocolate and cherries. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want to treat yourself, this cheesecake never disappoints. I encourage you to bake it soon and experience the creamy, fruity perfection firsthand — trust me, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your dessert repertoire.
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Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake combines a rich chocolate cookie crust with a creamy chocolate-infused cream cheese filling, topped with sweet cherry pie filling and optional chocolate curls. Perfect for holiday celebrations or any dessert occasion, this classic American dessert is indulgent yet easy to prepare and serves 10.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, without filling)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
For the topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling
- Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well. Beat in the eggs one at a time, just until incorporated. Stir in the melted chocolate until evenly combined. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Chill: After cooling in the oven, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Add topping and serve: Before serving, spoon the cherry pie filling over the top. Garnish with shaved chocolate or chocolate curls if desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
- The cheesecake can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- To cleanly slice the cheesecake, dip a knife in warm water and wipe between cuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
