Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake combines the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the indulgent flavors of chocolate and the sweet-tart freshness of cherries. This decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings, but it’s also a great way to treat yourself or your loved ones to something indulgent on a regular day. The smooth, creamy cheesecake layer pairs beautifully with a luscious chocolate ganache topping and a vibrant cherry compote. It’s a show-stopping dessert that is as impressive to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

The layers of this cheesecake are full of flavor, with the chocolate providing a rich depth, while the cherries offer a fruity contrast that brings the dessert to life. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a cheesecake aficionado, or a fan of sweet and fruity combos, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The addition of the chocolate and cherry toppings turns a classic cheesecake into a gourmet treat that’s as stunning as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of rich chocolate, tangy cheesecake, and sweet cherries strikes the perfect balance of flavors. The chocolate ganache is creamy and deep, while the cherry compote offers a burst of fruity freshness, elevating the entire dessert.
• Decadent and Elegant: This cheesecake is a true showstopper, with its beautiful layers and glossy ganache topping. It’s an elegant dessert that’s perfect for impressing guests or making any occasion feel extra special.
• Rich and Creamy Texture: The cheesecake filling is smooth and velvety, with a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. The contrast between the creamy filling and the crunchy graham cracker crust adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the level of sweetness or the type of chocolate used in this recipe. Whether you prefer a darker chocolate or a sweeter milk chocolate, the options are endless. You can even substitute the cherry compote with other fruit toppings like strawberries or raspberries.
• Impressive but Simple to Make: While this cheesecake looks intricate, it’s surprisingly simple to make. With a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Chilling Time: 4-5 hours (or overnight)
• Servings: 12-16 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per slice, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 6-8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 24-28g

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Chocolate Ganache:

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Cherry Compote:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium-sized bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon to pack it down evenly.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling. This ensures the crust firms up and provides a sturdy base for the cheesecake.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well incorporated. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Once the eggs are fully incorporated, add the sour cream, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Beat until smooth and fully combined. Lastly, add the flour and mix until just incorporated.

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure an even layer.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and transfer it to the oven. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly when you tap the pan. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools.

After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking by allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually. Afterward, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-5 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set completely.

4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the chocolate ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.

Let the ganache cool to room temperature before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake. This will prevent the ganache from melting the cheesecake when poured.

5. Prepare the Cherry Compote

In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juice and begin to break down, about 10 minutes. If you want a thicker compote, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the cherry mixture. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the compote thickens.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cherry compote cool to room temperature.

6. Assemble the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has fully set, carefully remove it from the springform pan. Place it on a serving platter. Pour the cooled chocolate ganache over the top of the cheesecake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow the ganache to set for about 10-15 minutes.

Once the ganache is set, spoon the cherry compote over the top of the cheesecake, spreading it out evenly or leaving it in clusters, depending on your preference.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cheesecake into 12-16 servings and serve chilled. Each slice will have a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and sweet cherry compote. This Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is best enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of additional chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Be sure to use room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream for the smoothest filling. Cold ingredients can cause the cheesecake to have lumps and prevent the batter from combining properly.
• Prevent Cracking: To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, bake it in a water bath (place the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water) or bake it on a low temperature and allow it to cool gradually in the oven. Avoid opening the oven door during baking as this can cause temperature fluctuations.
• Smooth Ganache: Make sure the ganache cools slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake. If it’s too hot, it could melt the cheesecake underneath, affecting the texture.
• Chill Overnight: For the best results, allow the cheesecake to chill overnight to ensure the filling has fully set and the flavors have had time to meld together.
• Add More Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings. Chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pistachios can add a nice crunch, or you could drizzle extra chocolate sauce or caramel sauce on top.

Variations of Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

• Raspberry or Strawberry Cheesecake: Swap the cherry compote for a raspberry or strawberry compote for a different fruity twist. Fresh berries can also be used as a topping for added texture.
• White Chocolate Ganache: For a different flavor profile, you can replace the semi-sweet chocolate ganache with white chocolate ganache for a sweeter, creamier topping.
• Chocolate Crust: For extra chocolatey goodness, use a chocolate cookie crust instead of the graham cracker crust. This will complement the chocolate ganache and add an extra layer of flavor.
• Nutty Cheesecake: Add some finely chopped nuts like pecans or hazelnuts to the graham cracker crust for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling.
• Mint Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing mint flavor that pairs well with the chocolate and cherries.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure it is covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. If you want to freeze the cheesecake, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Pair this indulgent dessert with the following for a complete meal:

• Coffee or Espresso: A rich, bold cup of coffee or espresso complements the deep chocolate flavors of the cheesecake and adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cherries.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a cool, creamy contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.
• Fresh Berries: Serve the cheesecake with a side of fresh berries for a refreshing balance to the rich dessert.
• Sparkling Water or Champagne: If you’re serving this dessert for a special occasion, pair it with sparkling water, champagne, or a light, fruity wine to cleanse the palate between bites.

Print

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that is sure to impress. Its smooth, creamy filling, paired with rich chocolate and tangy cherries, creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone craving more. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something sweet, this cheesecake is the perfect choice for any dessert lover. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a stunning, indulgent treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Enjoy!