Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

Quick Benefits

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines rich, creamy cheesecake with bursts of sweet cherries and a decadent chocolate ganache. It’s the perfect treat for holidays, birthdays, or romantic evenings. The water bath technique ensures a silky-smooth texture, while the cherry-chocolate combo adds a refreshing twist to traditional cheesecake.

Essential Ingredients

  • Crust:
    • 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
    • 5 tbsp melted butter
  • Cheesecake Filling:
    • 3 (8 oz) packages full-fat cream cheese
    • ½ cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • ½ cup International Delight Sweet Cream Creamer
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1 cup chopped fresh cherries
  • Chocolate Ganache:
    • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
    • ¾ cup chocolate chips
  • Toppings:
    • Mini chocolate chips
    • Fresh cherries

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Crust:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Mix chocolate graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until sandy.
  • Press into the bottom of a foil-lined 8″ round pan.
  • Bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool completely.

2. Prepare Cheesecake:

  • Beat cream cheese until fluffy.
  • Add sugar and vanilla; beat again.
  • Mix in creamer.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
  • Fold in chopped cherries and pour over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

  • Place the cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water (about 1 inch deep).
  • Bake at 325°F for 60 minutes or until the center slightly jiggles.
  • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked for 60–90 minutes.
  • Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

4. Make the Ganache:

  • Heat heavy cream and pour it over chocolate chips.
  • Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  • Cool slightly.

5. Assemble:

  • Pour ganache over chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.
  • Garnish with mini chocolate chips and fresh cherries.
  • Slice and serve chilled.

Health Benefits

  • Cherries offer antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Dark chocolate (from chips and ganache) contains flavonoids which support heart health.
  • Cream cheese provides calcium and vitamin A, but should be enjoyed in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve slices on chilled plates with an extra drizzle of ganache or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
  • A sprig of mint or dollop of whipped cream makes for a picture-perfect dessert.
  • Pair with coffee, espresso, or sweet dessert wine.

Creative Variations

  • Swap cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a fresh take.
  • Use Oreo cookies for a richer crust.
  • Add almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Pro Tips

  • Use a springform pan for easier removal.
  • Room temperature ingredients create the creamiest filling.
  • Bake in a true water bath to prevent cracks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen cherries?
A: Yes, thaw and drain them well before folding into the batter.

Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead?
A: Absolutely! It’s best when chilled overnight and can be made up to 2 days in advance.

Q: What if I don’t have chocolate graham crackers?
A: Use regular graham crackers and add 1 tbsp cocoa powder for a similar effect.

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