If you’ve ever enjoyed the rich, layered flavor of a Black Forest cake, or find yourself drawn to the indulgence of chocolate-covered cherries, this dessert will absolutely steal your heart. The Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake combines the luxurious texture of traditional cheesecake with the deep flavors of chocolate and the juicy sweetness of cherries.
This dessert is more than just a pretty centerpiece—it’s the kind of rich, elegant treat that’s made for birthdays, holidays, and dinner parties… or just whenever you want to indulge in something truly special. The dark chocolate crust brings a satisfying crunch, the velvety cheesecake filling is enriched with sour cream and melted chocolate, and juicy cherry pie filling adds bright, fruity bursts in every bite.
Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and extra cherries, this cheesecake is the ultimate showstopper—decadent, delightful, and totally worth the effort.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, crushed)
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (plus more for topping)
Optional Ganache Topping:
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Step 2: In a bowl, mix cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and sour cream; mix until combined.
Step 4: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
Step 5: Stir in melted chocolate until fully combined.
Step 6: Gently fold in cherry pie filling.
Step 7: Pour mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Step 8: Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 9 (Optional): For ganache, heat cream until simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and stir until smooth. Cool slightly, then spread over chilled cheesecake.
Step 10: Top with additional cherry pie filling before serving.
Variation
- Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin pan with liners and adjust baking time to 18–20 minutes.
- Cherry Swirl: Swirl the cherry filling into the top of the cheesecake before baking.
- Dark Chocolate Crust: Use chocolate graham crackers for a deeper flavor.
COOKING Note
- Ensure all filling ingredients are room temperature for a smooth texture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding eggs to prevent cracking.
- Use a water bath if you want extra insurance against cracks.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with whipped cream and fresh cherries.
- Add chocolate curls or shavings on top for elegance.
- Pair with coffee or red wine for a rich experience.
Tips
- Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake after baking to prevent sticking.
- Use a hot knife to slice cleanly.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice)
Calories: 520
Protein: 6g
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 32g
Sodium: 290mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
A: Absolutely. Simmer pitted fresh cherries with sugar, a splash of lemon juice, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken. Let cool before folding into the batter.
Q: I don’t have a springform pan. What can I use instead?
A: A deep-dish pie pan works in a pinch, though removing slices may be trickier. Line the pan with parchment for easier removal.
Q: Can I skip the ganache?
A: Yes. The cheesecake is delicious on its own, but the ganache adds that extra layer of chocolatey indulgence.
Q: My cheesecake cracked—what now?
A: Don’t worry! Cover with ganache or cherry topping. It’ll still taste amazing.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is pure indulgence in every bite. From the crunchy cookie crust to the rich chocolate filling and fruity cherry swirls, it delivers a dessert experience that’s both comforting and showstopping. Ideal for holidays, special occasions, or simply when your chocolate cravings strike, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress.
Make it once, and you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again—because when cherry and chocolate meet in cheesecake form, it’s love at first slice. 🍒🍫
[tasty-recipe id=”2168″]
