Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavors with the tartness of cherries, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging yourself, this cheesecake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Its creamy texture and beautiful presentation make it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart cherry compote, creating a delightful taste experience.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with readily available ingredients, this cheesecake is easy to whip up without any hassle.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or just a cozy night in, this cheesecake suits various events and palates.
• Impressive Presentation: The swirls of cherry compote on top create an elegant look that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this cheesecake a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your event.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform Pan: This allows for easy removal of the cheesecake after baking, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
• Electric Mixer: A handy tool for achieving a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter without lumps.
• Rubber Spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding ingredients together without deflating the batter.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 8 oz dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
• 3 large eggs

For the Cherry Compote

• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Compote

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, and water. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook until the cherries soften and release their juices (about 5 minutes). In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with one tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the cherry mixture and cook for another 2 minutes while stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix together chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust. Bake for about 10 minutes; then remove it from the oven and let it cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until it becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add both granulated sugar and brown sugar while continuing to beat until fully combined. Mix in sour cream and vanilla extract; scrape down the sides as needed. Slowly pour in melted dark chocolate while mixing until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed just until combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour half of your cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Spoon half of your cherry compote on top in small dollops. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl cherries into the batter. Repeat with remaining batter and cherry compote creating another swirl pattern on top.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake

Place springform pan inside a larger baking dish filled with hot water—this creates a water bath that helps prevent cracks in your cheesecake. Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes or until edges are set while center remains slightly jiggly. Turn off oven but leave cheesecake inside with door slightly ajar for an hour to cool slowly.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Remove cheesecake from oven; let it cool at room temperature before covering it up to refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best texture. Before serving, run a knife along edges of pan to loosen cake; release springform and slice into pieces.

Enjoy this delicious Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake with friends or family!

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether serving it at a special occasion or a casual gathering, these suggestions will elevate your cheesecake experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve slices on dessert plates, garnished with fresh cherries for a pop of color.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice for added creaminess and sweetness.

Chocolate Shavings

• Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the cheesecake as an elegant touch that enhances the chocolate flavor.

Mint Leaves

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cheesecake.

Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

For the best results when making Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, follow these tips to ensure a smooth and delicious treat.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter without lumps.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined after adding eggs. Overmixing can lead to cracks in the cheesecake during baking.

• Create a Water Bath: Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps maintain even temperature and prevents cracking, resulting in a creamy texture.

• Cool Gradually: After baking, leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open. This gradual cooling helps prevent sudden temperature changes that can crack the surface.

• Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, chill your cheesecake overnight before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Pairing side dishes with your Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Fresh Berries
   A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness and tartness that complements the rich cheesecake.

2. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the dense dessert.

3. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for extra indulgence; it’s perfect for chocolate lovers!

4. Espresso or Coffee
   A cup of strong coffee or espresso pairs well with desserts and balances out sweetness effectively.

5. Nutty Granola
   Serve crunchy nutty granola on the side for texture contrast and an added layer of flavor.

6. Coconut Whipped Cream
   For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream offers a sweet, tropical flair that complements chocolate nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your batter. Always let your cream cheese and eggs come to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Beating the cheesecake batter too much can incorporate excess air, leading to cracks as it bakes. Mix just until combined for a smooth texture.
• Skipping the water bath: A water bath helps keep the cheesecake moist and prevents cracks. Always place your springform pan in a larger dish filled with hot water when baking.
• Not chilling long enough: Patience is key! Failing to chill the cheesecake adequately can result in a less firm texture. Aim for at least 6 hours or overnight.
• Forgetting to swirl evenly: When layering the cherry compote and cheesecake batter, ensure even swirling for beautiful presentation. Use a knife or toothpick carefully!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes until slightly warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming gently for around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake.

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?

Yes, you can substitute cherries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To create a dairy-free version of Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.

What if my cheesecake cracks during baking?

Cracks often happen due to overmixing or temperature changes. Ensure you mix gently and use a water bath during baking to minimize cracking.

Can I add more chocolate flavor?

Absolutely! You can enhance the chocolate flavor by adding chocolate chips into the batter or using dark cocoa powder along with dark chocolate.

Final Thoughts

Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is not only rich and delightful but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings like whipped cream or nuts. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its creamy texture and delicious flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake, a dessert that masterfully blends rich dark chocolate with the tart sweetness of cherries. This cheesecake is perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday celebration, a dinner party, or even a cozy night in. Its creamy texture and stunning presentation make it a showstopper that will surely impress your guests. Easy to make with simple ingredients, this cheesecake can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Elevate your dessert experience with this delightful treat!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 8 oz dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the cherry compote by simmering cherries with sugar and water, then thicken with cornstarch.
2. Make the crust by mixing cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar; press into a springform pan and bake.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; mix in sugars, sour cream, vanilla, and melted chocolate before adding eggs.
4. Layer batter and cherry compote in the crust, swirling for an elegant finish.
5. Bake using a water bath to avoid cracks; cool gradually before refrigerating overnight.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 80mg