why make this recipe
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is a delicious treat that combines the rich flavor of dark chocolate with the sweet and tart taste of cherries. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or just when you want to indulge yourself. Its creamy texture and striking presentation make it a crowd-pleaser, sure to impress your friends and family.
how to make Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped and melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 1 1/4 cups cherry preserves
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
Directions:
- Heat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Wrap a 9-inch springform pan with two layers of foil on the outside.
- Stir the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter and press them into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8 minutes and then let it cool.
- Melt the dark chocolate over barely simmering water. Once melted, cool it for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then blend in the sour cream, vanilla, salt, and the melted chocolate.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan. Place the pan in a roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides. Bake for 55–65 minutes until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
- After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door, and cool the cheesecake for 1 hour. Remove the water bath and let it cool to room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Warm the cherry preserves until spreadable, then spoon it over the cheesecake. Top with halved cherries, slice, and serve.
how to serve Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Serve the cheesecake cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect as a standalone dessert. You can add whipped cream or extra cherries on top for even more flavor and decoration. Each slice makes a lovely presentation, making it great for parties or family gatherings.
how to store Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It should be good for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake, tightly wrapped, for up to a month.
tips to make Dark Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Use a high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven; this helps prevent cracking on the surface.
- If the filling seems too thick before baking, add a splash of milk to help reach the right consistency.
variation
You can try adding liqueurs like cherry or coffee for extra flavors. If you prefer, substitute the fresh cherries with other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a different twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day or two ahead. Just keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter cheesecake.
3. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use a regular cake pan, but you may have difficulty removing the cheesecake. Line the bottom with parchment paper to make it easier to lift out.
