Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with our Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake recipe. This luscious treat combines velvety cream cheese, rich chocolate, and juicy cherries for a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds. With a chocolate graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and decadent chocolate ganache topping, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, from special gatherings to cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
- 3 packages full-fat cream cheese (8 oz each)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup International Delight Sweet Cream Creamer
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chopped cherries (fresh)
- 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tbsp butter, melted
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¾ cup chocolate chips
- Mini chocolate chips
- Fresh cherries
Directions:
Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350º F.
- Pulse the chocolate graham crackers in a blender or food processor until finely crushed. Combine the crumbs with melted butter in a small bowl and mix well.
- Wrap the bottom and sides of an 8-inch pan in 3 layers of aluminum foil. Press the crumbs into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until golden. Allow to cool to room temperature.
Cheesecake:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla, beat again.
- Mix in the International Delight creamer, then add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Beat the mixture for 1 additional minute, then fold in chopped cherries.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.
- Place the 8-inch pan inside a 9×13 inch cake pan. Fill the larger pan with water, about 1 inch below the top of the foil on the smaller pan.
- Bake at 325º F for 60 minutes until the center wobbles slightly.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Chocolate Ganache:
- Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, bring heavy cream to a boil. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
Assembly:
- Spoon the chocolate ganache over the cheesecake and spread with a spatula.
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips around the edge of the cheesecake.
- Garnish with fresh cherries in the center.
- Serve chilled. Cover and refrigerate any leftovers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes | Servings: 12
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serve Chilled: For the best flavor and texture, serve the chocolate cherry cheesecake chilled. It’s refreshing and indulgent straight from the refrigerator.
- Slice with a Warm Knife: To achieve clean and smooth slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water before slicing the cheesecake. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for perfect portions.
- Garnish Before Serving: Add the chocolate ganache, mini chocolate chips, and fresh cherries just before serving to maintain their freshness and visual appeal.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Leftover cheesecake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors.
- Freeze for Future Enjoyment: If you have extra cheesecake or want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze individual slices or the whole cheesecake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations:
- White Chocolate Raspberry: Replace the chocolate graham cracker crust with a vanilla wafer crust and add fresh raspberries to the cheesecake filling for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
- Strawberry Swirl: Swirl strawberry preserves into the cheesecake batter before baking for a burst of fruity flavor and a beautiful marbled effect.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the chocolate ganache for an irresistible sweet and salty combination.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as toasted almonds or pecans, over the chocolate ganache for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Double Chocolate: Use a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham crackers and add cocoa powder to the cheesecake batter for an extra chocolatey indulgence.
- Almond Joy Twist: Incorporate almond extract into the cheesecake batter and sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped almonds over the chocolate ganache for a delightful Almond Joy-inspired flavor.
- Black Forest Delight: Add cherry pie filling between the cheesecake and chocolate ganache layers for a Black Forest-inspired twist. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an extra decadent touch.
- Mocha Madness: Infuse espresso powder into the cheesecake batter and drizzle coffee-flavored ganache over the top. Sprinkle crushed espresso beans for a delightful mocha flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
- Orange Chocolate Bliss: Add orange zest and a splash of orange liqueur to the cheesecake batter for a refreshing citrus twist. Top with candied orange peel and dark chocolate curls for an elegant finish.
- Raspberry Chocolate Dream: Swirl raspberry preserves into the cheesecake batter for a burst of fruity flavor. Top with fresh raspberries and white chocolate curls for a beautiful and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
FAQs :
- Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
- While fresh cherries are ideal for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen cherries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. It actually tastes better after chilling for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
- While you can use low-fat cream cheese, the texture and flavor may differ slightly from using full-fat cream cheese. It may result in a lighter and less creamy cheesecake.
- Can I omit the chocolate ganache topping?
- Absolutely! The chocolate ganache adds an extra layer of richness, but the cheesecake will still be delicious without it. Feel free to skip it or replace it with a different topping of your choice.
- Can I use a different type of creamer instead of sweet cream creamer?
- Yes, you can use any flavored or unflavored creamer you prefer, or substitute with heavy cream for a richer taste.
- How far in advance can I make the chocolate ganache?
- You can make the chocolate ganache up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently reheat it until pourable.
- Can I make individual cheesecake cupcakes with this recipe?
- Absolutely! Simply line a muffin tin with cupcake liners, press the crust into each liner, and divide the cheesecake batter among them. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Can I use a different fruit instead of cherries?
- Yes, you can customize the cheesecake with your favorite fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a delicious twist.
- How can I prevent cracks on the surface of the cheesecake?
- To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, bake the cheesecake in a water bath, and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar before refrigerating.
- Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
- Yes, you can substitute gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust and ensure all other ingredients used are gluten-free certified.
With these serving and storage tips, variations, and FAQs, you’re ready to create a delectable Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake that will impress and delight everyone fortunate enough to enjoy it!
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the sumptuous delight of Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake. With its irresistible blend of chocolate, cherries, and creamy cheesecake, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Enjoy the luxurious flavors and indulge in the decadence of this heavenly dessert creation.