Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that beautifully marries rich chocolate with the tartness of cherries, creating a delightful balance that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, this cheesecake stands out with its elegant presentation and luxurious flavors. I’ve had countless requests for this recipe, and I can confidently say it never disappoints.
Why you’ll love this dish
This dessert is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a masterpiece that deserves a spot on your dessert table. First and foremost, it’s an impressive yet approachable recipe perfect for any level of baker. The combination of velvety cream cheese, dark chocolate, and tart cherries creates a flavor profile that’s both rich and refreshing—a true crowd-pleaser! Not to mention, it can be prepared in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks or festive gatherings.
"I made this for my family reunion, and it was gone in minutes! The balance of chocolate and cherry is divine!" – Anna J.
The cooking process explained
Creating your own Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake isn’t just rewarding; it’s a straightforward process. You will start by crafting a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a smooth cream cheese filling infused with dark chocolate and cherries. Once baked and chilled, this cheesecake transforms into a creamy delight that’s ready to impress! The total time investment, including chilling, means you can prepare it a day ahead, which is perfect for any occasion.
What you’ll need
Gather the following ingredients before diving into this recipe:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar (for the crust)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened (ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 cup sugar (for the filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup dark chocolate, melted (choose high-quality chocolate for best flavor)
- 1 cup tart cherries, pitted and chopped (fresh or frozen work well)
- 1/4 cup cherry juice
- Whipped cream (for serving, optional)
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs one by one, blending well after each addition to ensure a creamy consistency.
- Gently stir in the melted dark chocolate, chopped tart cherries, and cherry juice until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, until the center is set but has a slight jiggle when shaken gently.
- Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the oven, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
- When ready to serve, slice and enjoy chilled, optionally adding a dollop of whipped cream.
Best ways to enjoy it
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake can shine on its own, but a few embellishments can elevate your dessert experience. Serve with fresh whipped cream on top for added decadence or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich flavors. You might also consider garnishing with extra cherries or chocolate shavings for a visually stunning presentation. For a contrasting crunch, a sprinkle of crushed nuts can add a delightful texture.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake fresh after making it, simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to prolong its life, consider freezing slices individually wrapped in plastic, then in foil or a freezer-safe container, for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Tricks for success
Here are a few professional tips to ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly every time:
- Be sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy blending, avoiding lumps in your filling.
- Avoid over-mixing after adding the eggs; this helps prevent cracks during baking.
- If your cheesecake cracks while cooling, don’t worry! Top it with whipped cream or chocolate ganache, and no one will ever know.
Creative twists
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences:
- Swap out dark chocolate for milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a subtle nutty twist.
- Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a unique flavor, or add a layer of fruit puree on top before serving for an extra burst of fruitiness.
Your questions answered
How long does this cheesecake take to prepare?
The actual hands-on preparation takes about 30-40 minutes, but you’ll need to allow at least 4 hours of refrigeration for the cheesecake to set properly.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries are a great substitute; just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your cheesecake.
What’s the best way to slice a cheesecake?
To achieve clean cuts, dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice the cheesecake. Repeat this process for each slice to maintain neat edges.
Enjoy crafting your own Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, and let the delightful combination of flavors take you and your guests on a sweet journey!
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.25 cups sugar for the crust
- 0.33 cups unsalted butter, melted
For the filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing
- 1 cup sugar for the filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup dark chocolate, melted choose high-quality chocolate for best flavor
- 1 cup tart cherries, pitted and chopped fresh or frozen work well
- 0.25 cups cherry juice
For serving
- Whipped cream for serving, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar and the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs one by one, blending well after each addition to ensure a creamy consistency.
- Gently stir in the melted dark chocolate, chopped tart cherries, and cherry juice until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top.
Baking
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, until the center is set but has a slight jiggle when shaken gently.
- Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the oven, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Serving
- When ready to serve, slice and enjoy chilled, optionally adding a dollop of whipped cream.
