There’s nothing quite like the moment when you slice into a rich cheesecake, revealing a luscious blend of dark chocolate and tart cherries. The silky texture paired with that perfect hint of sweetness creates an indulgent experience that leaves a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to take a bite.
I discovered this Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake on a rainy afternoon while trying to coax some cheer into a gloomy day. The combination of flavors instantly transported me to a cozy dessert café, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. It’s an easy, yet sophisticated dessert that not only satisfies sweet cravings but also becomes a conversation starter among friends and family.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long week, this cheesecake’s versatility makes it a go-to recipe that stands out. Trust me, it’s a delightful twist on a classic that will keep you coming back for more! Let’s dive into making this delectable treat that truly elevates any dessert table.
Why You'll Love This Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
- This Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
- The luscious combination of rich dark chocolate and tangy cherries creates a flavor explosion that will thrill your taste buds.
- Its stunning visual appeal, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.
- This cheesecake is also versatile enough to be enjoyed at any occasion, from casual weeknight treats to festive celebrations, ensuring it will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Ingredients
Get ready to indulge in this heavenly dessert!
For the Crust
- Chocolate cookie crumbs – these provide a rich, textured base for the cheesecake.
- Unsalted butter – melted for binding the crumbs together, ensuring a cohesive crust.
- Granulated sugar – adds a hint of sweetness to the crust, balancing the flavors.
For the Filling
- Cream cheese – softened to create a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Granulated sugar – enhances the sweetness of the filling for a delightful contrast with the dark chocolate.
- Vanilla extract – adds a subtle warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
- Large eggs – crucial for binding the cheesecake and making it rise.
- Sour cream – brings creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness with a rich flavor.
- Dark chocolate – melted and slightly cooled, it’s the star of the show in this Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake.
- Cherry pie filling or fresh cherries – either option adds a burst of tartness that complements the richness of the chocolate.
For the Topping
- Heavy cream – whipped for a light and fluffy topping that adds a luxurious finish.
- Chocolate shavings – for garnish, adding visual appeal and extra chocolatey goodness.
- Fresh cherries – an optional garnish that brightens up the presentation and adds a pop of color.
Get ready to impress with this delightful combination of ingredients!
How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it—this will ensure your cheesecake releases easily after baking.
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Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl. Mix until everything is well combined; the mixture should resemble wet sand.
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Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased springform pan. Be sure to create an even layer, as this will serve as the delicious base for your cheesecake.
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Bake the crust in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until it’s slightly set, then remove and let it cool completely. This step ensures your base is crisp and ready for the filling.
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Beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This will create a luscious, fluffy texture for your filling.
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Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined. This infusion of sweetness is vital for balancing the tartness of the cherries.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your cheesecake light and airy.
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Stir in the sour cream and melted dark chocolate until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The dark chocolate is the star here, so don’t rush this important step!
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Fold in the cherry pie filling or chopped fresh cherries gently. You want to see beautiful swirls of red within the rich chocolate filling.
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Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly for a uniform bake.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, checking for the center to be set but still slightly jiggly. This ensures a perfect, creamy texture.
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Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually. This method helps prevent cracking on the surface.
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Cool the cheesecake to room temperature before removing it from the oven. This step is crucial for setting up the flavors and texture.
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Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The longer it chills, the better the flavors meld together.
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Spread the whipped heavy cream evenly over the top of the cheesecake just before serving to add a light and fluffy layer.
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Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired. These add a lovely touch of elegance and flavor to your dessert.
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful cheesecake!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute chocolate cookie crumbs with gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a deliciously inclusive crust.
- Nutty Notes: Add a layer of crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, in the crust for extra texture and a buttery flavor.
- Creamy Twist: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt—it adds a tangy richness while keeping the cheesecake healthy.
- Berry Burst: Replace cherries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity flair that’s just as scrumptious.
- Mint Infusion: Stir in some chopped fresh mint leaves into the filling for a refreshing twist that’ll brighten each bite.
- Coffee Kick: Mix in a tablespoon of instant espresso powder with the melted chocolate for a mocha-like flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- Lava Cheesecake: Create a molten center by adding a dollop of chocolate ganache in the middle of the batter before baking—surprise and delight anyone who takes a slice!
- Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling for an unexpected kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
With each variation, you’re bound to find a new favorite that makes this cheesecake your own!
Storage Tips for Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Fridge: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Cover the top to keep it fresh and prevent drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze slices of the cheesecake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer your cheesecake slightly warm, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before enjoying. It’s delectable chilled or at room temperature!
Serving Suggestions: For the best flavor, enjoy the cheesecake with the whipped topping just before serving. This keeps it airy and fresh!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake in advance is a fantastic way to save time and ensure a delightful dessert for busy weeknights or special occasions! You can make the crust and the cheesecake filling up to 3 days ahead. Simply follow the instructions for baking the crust, let it cool, and then prepare the filling, pouring it over the crust. Wrap the entire springform pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just add the whipped cream topping and any garnishes you wish, and you’ll have a stunning cheesecake that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made! Remember, chilling the cheesecake overnight allows the flavors to deepen, making it even more decadent.
What to Serve with Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake?
Indulge your senses and elevate your dessert experience by pairing this rich cheesecake with delightful accompaniments.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries enlivens each bite, creating a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
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Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea perfectly complements the dessert’s decadent flavors while providing a soothing finish.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, sweet ice cream enhances the cheesecake’s textures, making every mouthful a delightful treat.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of warm chocolate ganache adds an indulgent touch while enhancing the chocolatey goodness.
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Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of caramel introduces a new level of sweetness and flavor that beautifully balances the tart cherry notes.
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Espresso: The robust flavor of espresso pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheesecake, adding a delightful contrast.
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Pecan Crust Cookies: The nutty, crunchy texture of these cookies brings an enjoyable crunch that harmonizes with the creamy cheesecake.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it delivers a gentle hint of sweetness while bringing an exotic twist to a classic dessert.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a perfectly smooth filling without lumps.
- When mixing, remember to add the eggs one at a time and mix on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks during baking.
- It’s helpful to gently fold in the cherry filling or chopped cherries to maintain their shape and create beautiful swirls in the cheesecake.
- Finally, always allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar, as this technique helps prevent unsightly cracks on the surface during cooling.
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
Can I use different types of cherries?
Absolutely! You can use either cherry pie filling or fresh cherries for this Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake. If using fresh cherries, be sure to pit and chop them into small pieces for an even distribution throughout the cheesecake. This choice may enhance the freshness of the dessert!
How should I store leftover Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake?
For the best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover the top to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top just before sealing can keep it looking delightful!
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Yes! This cheesecake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw a slice in the refrigerator overnight. It will taste just as delicious as the day you made it!
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
No need to fret! If your cheesecake cracks during baking, it happens to the best of us. To prevent this, ensure that you cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven with the door ajar for about an hour after baking. This gentler cooling method can help even out temperature changes, leading to a smoother surface.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Always! If you’re serving this Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake to guests, consider any dietary restrictions they may have. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust. Additionally, this recipe contains dairy; if anyone has lactose intolerance, you could experiment with lactose-free cream cheese and sour cream.
What’s the best way to serve this cheesecake?
For the ultimate presentation, serve your cheesecake chilled with a generous dollop of whipped heavy cream on top. You can also add some fresh cherries and chocolate shavings for a gorgeous garnish. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the top!
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Ingredients
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 ounces dark chocolate melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
- 1 cup heavy cream whipped
- 1/4 cup chocolate shavings for garnish
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries optional garnish
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- Combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl.
- Press crumb mixture firmly into bottom of the springform pan.
- Bake crust for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
- Beat softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each until just combined.
- Stir in sour cream and melted dark chocolate until smooth.
- Fold in cherry pie filling or chopped fresh cherries gently.
- Pour cheesecake filling over cooled crust, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, checking for the center to be set but slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven, leave cheesecake inside with door ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Cool cheesecake to room temperature before removing from the oven.
- Refrigerate cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Spread whipped heavy cream evenly over topped cheesecake before serving.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired.
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