Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Indulge in a slice of heaven with this decadent chocolate cherry cheesecake recipe! Combining rich chocolate and tart cherries, this dessert is not just delicious but visually stunning—perfect for any occasion. With a chocolatey graham cracker crust and creamy cheesecake filling, it's a delightful treat that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this luxurious dessert from scratch, and elevate your baking skills!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the cherry filling:

2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

½ cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cheesecake filling:

3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 large eggs

½ cup sour cream

½ cup heavy cream

8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted

For the topping:

Whipped cream (optional)

Fresh cherries and chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray or butter.

Make the Crust:

In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Cherry Filling:

In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Gradually add in the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Add in the sour cream and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.

Incorporate Chocolate:

Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly, then slowly mix it into the cheesecake batter until fully combined.

Assemble the Cheesecake:

Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Spoon half of the cherry filling over the batter. Pour the remaining cheesecake batter on top, and then dollop the remaining cherry filling on top of that. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cherry filling into the cheesecake slightly for a marbled effect.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour.

Cool and Chill:

Once cooled, allow the cheesecake to rest at room temperature for an hour. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Serve:

Before serving, top with whipped cream, fresh cherries, and chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and enjoy this indulgent dessert with family and friends!

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling) | Servings: 12 slices