Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

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This Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that makes a bold, unforgettable statement. From its velvety chocolate base to the glossy cherry topping and silky cream cheese layer, every bite is a dance of rich and tangy flavors. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece for holidays, birthdays, or any time you want to impress with something decadent and delicious.

The contrast between the deep cocoa notes and the sweet-tart burst of cherries is everything you want in a cheesecake. Add the dramatic drizzle of dark chocolate ganache and the crunch of shaved chocolate, and you’ve got a dessert that turns heads and satisfies cravings.

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Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

This cheesecake is indulgent yet perfectly balanced. The rich chocolate layer brings depth, while the cherry topping adds brightness and a juicy pop of freshness. It’s made with simple pantry staples but looks like it came straight from a bakery. Whether you’re a chocolate lover, cherry enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a good cheesecake, this dessert will not disappoint.

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What Kind of Cherries Should I Use?

For the topping, fresh cherries are gorgeous and provide that wow factor, especially if you’re serving this for a special occasion. But if you’re making this out of cherry season, canned or frozen cherries will work perfectly, especially when simmered into a glossy topping with sugar and lemon juice. Just make sure to pit the fresh cherries if you’re going that route.

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Ingredients for the Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Creating this layered beauty is easier than you might think. Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture:

• Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the rich, crunchy crust that anchors the cake.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust together and adds richness.
• Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, it brings a smooth, tangy base.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the tang.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set perfectly.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warm, fragrant flavor to the filling.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted into the base layer for a deep cocoa flavor.
• Heavy cream: Lightens the texture and enriches the chocolate layer.
• Fresh or frozen cherries: For the vibrant topping. Bursting with juicy flavor.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Lemon juice: Brightens up the cherry flavor.
• Dark chocolate ganache: Optional but highly recommended for that glossy finish.

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How To Make the Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Step 1: Make the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Layer

Melt the chocolate chips with heavy cream until smooth. Let it cool slightly before spreading over the cooled crust. Chill to set while preparing the next layer.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour over the set chocolate layer and smooth the top.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Cool at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Make the Cherry Topping

In a saucepan, simmer cherries with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until thick and glossy. Let it cool completely before spooning over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 6: Add the Ganache (Optional)

Drizzle the top with a layer of ganache and decorate with extra cherries and chocolate shavings for that final flourish.

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Serving and Storing This Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

This cheesecake feeds 10 to 12 people generously, making it ideal for gatherings. Serve chilled with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a luxe experience.

Store leftovers in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cheesecake without the cherry topping for up to 2 months. Just wrap it well and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

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What to Serve With Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake?

Espresso or Strong Coffee

Balances the richness of the cheesecake with bold flavor.

Fresh Whipped Cream

Adds a light, airy contrast to the dense, rich layers.

Glass of Port or Cherry Wine

The fruit-forward notes enhance the cherry topping beautifully.

Dark Chocolate Bark

Keeps the chocolate theme alive with some crunch on the side.

Roasted Almonds or Pecans

A salty, nutty bite cuts through the sweetness just right.

Raspberry Coulis

Adds an extra tangy, berry twist if you’re looking to amplify fruit flavor.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

For those who like their cheesecake with an ultra-creamy, cold sidekick.

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Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If this Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake has you swooning, you’re going to love diving into more rich and creative takes on this classic dessert. Try these next:

• Hot Fudge Sundae Brownie Cheesecake
• Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups
• Nutella French Toast Casserole
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use fresh cherries or frozen ones? Go with ganache or skip it? Did you try chocolate on top or maybe a splash of cherry liqueur?

I love seeing your twists on this dessert. Don’t hesitate to drop questions, either — let’s help each other master the art of cheesecake.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and sweet treats on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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