There's nothing quite as indulgent as a rich and creamy Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake. The luscious combination of velvety cheesecake, decadent chocolate, and tart cherries makes for an unforgettable dessert. Each bite melts in your mouth, with the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that will have you reaching for another slice.

I first fell in love with this recipe when I was looking for the perfect dessert to serve at a holiday gathering. I wanted something elegant yet easy to make ahead of time, and this cheesecake fit the bill perfectly. Now, it's become a staple in my home, gracing our table for birthdays, anniversaries, and even casual weekend treats.

Why You'll Love This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Get ready to fall head over heels for this divine cheesecake! Whether you're a chocolate lover, a cheesecake aficionado, or simply a fan of irresistible desserts, this recipe has something for everyone.

First and foremost, the rich chocolate crust sets the stage for a truly indulgent treat. Made with crushed chocolate cookies and butter, it adds a crunchy contrast to the smooth cheesecake filling.

Then there's the luxuriously creamy cheesecake layer, infused with a hint of vanilla and speckled with bits of dark chocolate. Each bite is pure bliss, with a texture that's perfectly silky yet dense enough to satisfy.

The cherry topping is where the magic really happens. Tart cherries simmered with a touch of sugar create a glossy, vibrant sauce that complements the rich chocolate flavors beautifully.

And let’s not forget – this cheesecake is great for special occasions but simple enough to make on a whim. It can be prepared in advance, so all you have to do is slice and serve when you're ready to impress!

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake lies in using high-quality ingredients. Each component plays an important role in delivering the best flavor and texture.

The chocolate cookie crust provides a deliciously crisp base that holds up well under the creamy filling. I like using chocolate sandwich cookies, but any chocolate wafer cookie will work. Just be sure to pulse them into fine crumbs for the best texture.

For the cheesecake filling, you'll need full-fat cream cheese. This is non-negotiable! Low-fat alternatives won't give you the same rich, velvety consistency. A touch of sour cream helps balance the sweetness, while eggs bind everything together for a smooth, custardy texture.

The chocolate mix-ins elevate this cheesecake to the next level. I prefer using chopped dark chocolate instead of chocolate chips because it melts more evenly and creates little pockets of rich, chocolatey goodness throughout the filling.

Finally, the cherry topping is made with fresh or frozen cherries, a bit of sugar, and a splash of lemon juice to enhance their natural tartness. You can use canned cherry pie filling in a pinch, but making your own is worth the extra effort for a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

You'll also need a springform pan for easy release, as well as a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure an ultra-smooth texture.

How To Make This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Making this decadent cheesecake is simpler than it looks! Follow these steps for a flawless dessert every time.

Start by preparing the chocolate cookie crust. Crush your cookies into fine crumbs, then mix them with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased springform pan and bake for about 10 minutes to set the crust.

While the crust cools, make the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in sour cream and vanilla extract, followed by the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air. Gently fold in chopped dark chocolate for an extra chocolatey bite.

Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Place the pan into a larger roasting pan and pour in hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 60-70 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight wobble.

Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually. After an hour, remove it from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the best texture.

For the cherry topping, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly. Let it cool before spooning over the chilled cheesecake.

Storage Options

This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake stores beautifully, making it perfect for prepping ahead of time.

If you have leftovers, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day!

For longer storage, freeze individual slices or the whole cheesecake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

To reheat a slice slightly for a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this cheesecake is its versatility! Here are some fun ways to change it up:

Swap the crust: If you’re not a fan of chocolate crusts, try using a classic graham cracker crust or even an Oreo cookie crust for extra sweetness.
Use different chocolate: Love milk chocolate? Swap the dark chocolate for a milder, creamier bite. You can even use white chocolate for a completely different flavor profile.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust, and ensure all your other ingredients are gluten-free.
Try a different fruit topping: If cherries aren’t your thing, top the cheesecake with raspberries, strawberries, or even a mixed berry compote.
Add a drizzle: A drizzle of hot fudge or white chocolate ganache on top of the cherries makes this dessert even more stunning and indulgent.

The beauty of this recipe is that you can make it your own. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to find your perfect version of this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake!

No matter how you customize it, this cheesecake is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering. Enjoy!