Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

The Heavenly Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe You’ll Adore

Sweet dreams meet delectable reality with this irresistible cherry chocolate cheesecake that promises pure indulgence.

Creamy textures merge seamlessly with rich chocolate notes and bursts of tangy cherries.

Rich layers of decadence await your dessert adventure.

Silky smooth cream cheese forms the perfect canvas for deeply intense chocolate swirls.

Bright red cherries add unexpected brightness against dark chocolate undertones.

Each forkful carries a symphony of contrasting flavors that dance across your palate.

You won’t believe how simple it is to create this showstopping dessert that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery.

Prepare to impress everyone at your next gathering with this extraordinary treat.

Why Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Is Irresistible

Why Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Is Irresistible
  • Indulge in Decadence: A luxurious dessert that combines rich chocolate and sweet cherries, creating a mouthwatering treat perfect for satisfying serious chocolate cravings.
  • Impress with Minimal Effort: This showstopping cheesecake looks complicated but requires simple steps anyone can master, making you look like a pro baker without breaking a sweat.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Guaranteed to wow guests at dinner parties, family gatherings, or special celebrations with its stunning combination of flavors and elegant presentation.
  • Make Ahead Magic: Perfect for preparing in advance, this cheesecake actually tastes better after chilling, allowing you to plan ahead and reduce day-of stress for entertaining.

Ingredients for Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust and creates a rich, smooth texture.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary ingredient that gives the cheesecake its creamy and tangy base.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.
  • Large Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to the cheesecake filling.
  • Chocolate: Brings a rich, decadent chocolate flavor to the cheesecake.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Cherry Pie Filling, Chocolate Shavings: A sweet and decorative topping that adds visual appeal and extra flavor to the cheesecake.

Stepwise Guide to Baking Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Stepwise Guide to Baking Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Turn your oven to 325F (163C) and get ready to create a delightful dessert.

Step 2: Create The Crunchy Base

Grab your favorite chocolate or graham cookies and crush them into fine crumbs.

Mix the crumbs with melted butter until well combined.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, creating an even layer.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes to set the crust.

Remove and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Whip Up The Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until silky smooth.

Gradually add sugar and continue mixing.

Introduce eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and melted chocolate until the mixture becomes luxuriously rich and uniform.

Step 4: Bake The Cheesecake

Pour the velvety filling over the prepared crust.

Carefully place the pan back in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.

The cheesecake is ready when the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.

Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.

Step 5: Add The Fruity Finale

Once the cheesecake has cooled, generously spread cherry pie filling across the top.

For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle chocolate shavings over the cherries.

Step 6: Chill And Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to allow it to set perfectly.

When ready to serve, slice into decadent portions and enjoy the harmonious blend of chocolate and cherry flavors.

Tips for Smooth Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Texture

  • Bake in a water bath to create humid environment and prevent surface cracks during baking.
  • Melt chocolate gently and fold carefully to create beautiful marbled patterns throughout the cheesecake filling.
  • Press cookie crumb mixture firmly and evenly into pan bottom to create a compact, stable base for your dessert.
  • Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for smoother, lump-free cheesecake batter.
  • Gently spread cherry pie filling to avoid breaking the delicate cheesecake surface when adding topping.

Creative Twists for Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Gluten-Free Cherry Chocolate Delight: Replace cookie crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Chocolate Cherry Dream: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut cream instead of eggs, and opt for dark chocolate without milk.
  • Low-Sugar Cherry Chocolate Treat: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, use sugar-free cherry preserves, and choose dark chocolate with minimal added sugar.
  • Dairy-Free Chocolate Cherry Bliss: Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives like tofu-based spread, replace sour cream with coconut yogurt, and select dairy-free chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

  • Sweet Celebration Platter: Arrange slices on a decorative cake stand with fresh cherries and chocolate curls scattered around for an elegant dessert presentation.
  • Dessert Pairing Magic: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the rich chocolate and cherry flavors.
  • Coffee Companion Delight: Pair with a hot espresso or rich cappuccino to complement the decadent cheesecake's deep chocolate and fruity notes.
  • Garnish Garden: Top each slice with additional fresh cherries, mint leaves, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a professional restaurant-style finish.

How to Store Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Safely

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the cheesecake's flavor.
  • Carefully wrap the entire cheesecake in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut individual slices, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thaw in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before enjoying.

FAQs

  • How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Use a water bath when baking, add eggs one at a time while mixing slowly, and avoid overmixing the batter. These techniques help create a smooth, crack-free surface.

  • Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can make a homemade cherry topping by cooking fresh cherries with sugar and a little cornstarch until thickened. This provides a fresher flavor and more natural taste.

  • What type of chocolate works best for this recipe?

Use high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for the richest flavor. Chocolate with 60-70% cocoa content provides the best balance of sweetness and depth.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Sinful cherry chocolate cheesecake merges rich chocolate ganache with luscious cherry compote for an indulgent dessert. Silky cream cheese layers promise delectable comfort that will satisfy sweet cravings with European-inspired elegance.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

Filling:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) melted dark chocolate

Cherries:

  • 1 cup (150 grams) fresh or frozen cherries

Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) chocolate cookie crumbs

Complementary Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Craft the graham cracker base by pulverizing cookies into fine crumbs and blending with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake at 325°F for 10 minutes to set the foundation.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip cream cheese and sugar until silky and lump-free. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring thorough integration after each addition. Gently fold in vanilla extract, sour cream, and smoothly melted chocolate, maintaining a velvety consistency.
  3. Pour the luxurious chocolate-infused mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly to eliminate air pockets. Position in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, monitoring until the center appears slightly jiggly but set.
  4. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, which prevents cracking and ensures structural integrity. Once cooled, generously distribute cherry pie filling across the surface, creating a vibrant crimson topping.
  5. Enhance the presentation by delicately sprinkling chocolate shavings over the cherry layer if desired. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to allow complete setting and flavor melding. Slice with a heated knife for clean, precise portions.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling and easier mixing.
  • Prevent cracks by baking in a water bath, which creates gentle, even heating and helps the cheesecake cook uniformly.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a light, creamy texture and prevent air bubbles that can cause surface cracks.
  • Swap cookie crumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 367 kcal
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star