If you have a soft spot for rich, luscious desserts that perfectly balance indulgence and fruitiness, the Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This cheesecake boasts a decadent dark chocolate-infused filling nestled on a chocolate cookie crust, crowned with a vibrant, glossy cherry topping that bursts with freshness. Every bite is a harmonious dance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that’s just as stunning for a special occasion as it is for a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this unforgettable dessert. Each component plays a vital role: the chocolate cookie crumbs give a crunchy, rich base; the cream cheese blend creates a silky smooth filling; and the fresh cherries provide a tangy contrast, elevating every forkful.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Using chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers amps up the chocolate flavor and gives a sturdy crust.
- Granulated sugar: Separate amounts for the crust, filling, and topping ensure just the right level of sweetness throughout the cheesecake.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust while keeping the flavor clean and buttery.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that delivers that creamy, tangy base typical of every cheesecake.
- Sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to keep the filling luscious and balanced.
- Large eggs: Help set the cheesecake filling without overcooking it, giving a custardy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm aroma that complements the chocolate marvelously.
- Dark chocolate chips, melted: Brings the intense chocolate flavor and rich color that makes this cheesecake truly special.
- Fresh or frozen cherries, pitted: Provides that juicy burst of flavor and a beautiful red finish on top.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry topping into a shiny glaze that stays in place.
- Water: Helps create the perfect consistency for the cherry topping.
How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and greasing a 9-inch springform pan. This ensures your cheesecake won’t stick and will come out perfectly formed, ready to impress.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Crust
Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with sugar and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan. This base is crucial because it adds a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling you’ll layer on top.
Step 3: Whip Up the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until perfectly smooth and lump-free. Adding sour cream next gives a subtle tang, then incorporate the eggs one by one to keep the batter silky. Finally, stir in vanilla extract and melted dark chocolate to create that velvety, rich flavor the recipe is known for.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour your luscious filling over the crust. Bake it for 50 to 60 minutes, watching for a slight jiggle in the center—a sign your cheesecake is baked just right. Then, turn off your oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door cracked open for an hour to avoid cracking and to settle the texture beautifully.
Step 5: Chill Completely
Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling step is essential to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set firmly, giving you slices that hold their shape perfectly.
Step 6: Prepare and Add the Cherry Topping
Create the glossy cherry topping by cooking cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and water until thickened. Allow this vibrant sauce to cool before spreading it evenly atop the chilled cheesecake, giving the final layer a burst of fruity freshness and gorgeous color.
How to Serve Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation even more, consider sprinkling some shaved dark chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top. A few fresh cherries right before serving add a touch of elegance and freshness.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with light accompaniments like a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you want to enhance the fruity notes, a small bowl of marinated berries also works wonders.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, slice the cheesecake into small squares and serve it on decorative platters with forks. Alternatively, try layering individual servings in glass jars with extra cherry topping and chocolate shavings for a visually stunning dessert everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake should be tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture and fresh cherry topping. It stays delicious for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
You can freeze slices of this cheesecake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, and the rich flavors and texture will remain beautifully intact.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer, let it sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving to take the chill off and enhance the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh ones and may even be more convenient outside cherry season. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking the topping.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for cheesecakes because it allows easy removal without damaging the crust, but if you don’t have one, a regular 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper can work too. Just be extra careful when removing the cheesecake.
Can I substitute the dark chocolate for milk chocolate?
You can, but using dark chocolate gives the cheesecake its signature bold flavor and richness. Milk chocolate will make it sweeter and less intense, which some may prefer.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Cooling the cheesecake gradually by leaving it in a turned-off oven with the door ajar helps prevent cracks. Also, be careful not to overbeat the batter or overbake the cheesecake.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs for the crust to make the entire cheesecake safe for gluten-free diets without compromising on taste.
Final Thoughts
This Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe is truly a showstopper that combines rich chocolate, smooth cheesecake, and bright cherries in one irresistible dessert. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or treating yourself on a weekend, it promises joy in every bite. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will hold a special place in your recipe collection just like it does in mine!
Print
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and decadent Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake combines a silky chocolate-infused cream cheese filling with a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, topped with a luscious homemade cherry compote. Perfect for special occasions or when you crave a luxurious dessert that balances bittersweet dark chocolate with the tart sweetness of cherries.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
Cherry Topping
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan to ensure the cheesecake won’t stick during baking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter together until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and blend well. Then, add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract and folded melted dark chocolate chips until evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is still slightly jiggly but mostly set. Once baked, turn off the oven, slightly open the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set and develop flavors.
- Prepare Cherry Topping: In a saucepan, combine pitted cherries, 1/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Serve: Once the topping is cooled, spread it gently over the chilled cheesecake before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Use a springform pan to easily release cheesecake without damage.
- Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks.
- For a stronger cherry flavor, use fresh cherries when in season.
- The cherry topping can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for best texture and flavor.
