Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until everything is well combined.
- Divide your batter in half. Gently fold the melted chocolate into one half of the batter until it’s fully incorporated.
- Pour the plain batter over the chilled crust, then carefully layer the chocolate batter on top. Use a skewer or knife to swirl the two batters together for a beautiful marbled effect.
- Evenly distribute the cherries over the top and lightly swirl them into the batter with a skewer.
- Bake this beauty in the oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about an hour. After cooling, spread the cherry preserves over the top for that irresistible glossy finish.
- Finally, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or preferably overnight) before serving to let the flavors meld together.
How to serve Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
When it comes to serving your cherry chocolate cheesecake, presentation is key! You can slice it into wedges and serve it chilled, perhaps topped with a dollop of whipped cream and some extra cherries for an eye-catching finish. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience, or serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful after-dinner treat.
How to store
Once you’ve baked this exquisite cheesecake, you’ll want to keep it fresh for future enjoyment. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, where it can last for up to a week. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. To thaw, move the slices to the refrigerator and allow them to defrost overnight.
Pro chef tips
To ensure that your cherry chocolate cheesecake turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, toss in some chocolate chips along with the cherries.
- Don’t skip the chilling time! The cheesecake needs it to firm up, enhancing both its texture and flavor.
- If you want to showcase the cherry flavor even more, consider making a cherry compote to drizzle over each slice before serving.
Creative twists
There are endless variations to explore with this cherry chocolate cheesecake:
- Try swapping the chocolate crust for a graham cracker crust for a different texture.
- Add a touch of almond extract to the batter to complement the cherries beautifully.
- For a berry medley twist, consider adding blueberries or raspberries along with the cherries.
- Want a lighter version? Substitute the cream cheese with cottage cheese blended smooth for a lower-calorie option.
Common questions
How long does it take to make cherry chocolate cheesecake?
On average, this cheesecake takes about 15-20 minutes of preparation time followed by 55-65 minutes in the oven. Remember that chilling time is crucial—it’s best to let it sit in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they are pitted and slightly thawed before adding them to the cheesecake.
How can I adjust for dietary needs?
You can make this cheesecake gluten-free by using gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust. For a lower-fat option, consider using low-fat cream cheese, or substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
By crafting this cherry chocolate cheesecake, you not only treat your taste buds to a sensational dessert but also bring joy to any gathering. Its delightful balance of flavors makes every bite memorable! Happy baking!
