No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines indulgence and simplicity, look no further than this No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake. With its creamy, velvety filling, decadent chocolate cookie crust, and the sweet-tangy contrast of cherry topping, this cheesecake is sure to satisfy your dessert cravings. Best of all, it’s a no-bake recipe, so you can prepare this stunning dessert without turning on your oven! It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
• ⅛ cup packed brown sugar
• ⅓ cup butter, melted
• 1 pinch salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese (2 packages)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 pint heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup white sugar
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 21 oz cherry pie filling (1 can)

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Once done, chill the crust in the refrigerator for a while to set.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring continuously to incorporate it fully into the mixture. Add the white sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, then continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well blended.
3. Incorporate the Cocoa Powder: Slowly add the cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture, beating at medium speed until it’s fully incorporated. This will give the cheesecake its rich chocolate flavor.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the smooth chocolate cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. Place the cheesecake in the freezer for at least 3 hours or refrigerate it overnight to allow it to set properly.
5. Top with Cherry Pie Filling: Before serving, generously pour the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake, allowing the vibrant red cherries to sit on top, creating a delicious contrast to the rich chocolate base.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cheesecake is versatile and can be served for any special occasion, from birthdays and holidays to casual gatherings and dinner parties. Its striking appearance and delicious flavors will make it a showstopper on your dessert table.
• Garnish for Extra Flair: For a finishing touch, add some whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake or sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for a beautiful presentation. A few fresh mint leaves can also enhance the visual appeal.
• Serve Chilled: This cheesecake is best served cold. Before serving, allow it to thaw slightly if you’ve frozen it, ensuring the filling stays firm and creamy.
• Pair with a Drink: Enjoy this cheesecake with a glass of iced coffee, dessert wine, or a refreshing fruit punch to complement its rich and tangy flavors.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days, staying fresh and creamy.
• Freezing: If you want to store the cheesecake for longer, freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake can be kept for up to 2 months. Thaw the cheesecake in the fridge overnight for best results.
• Storage of Topping: If you have leftover cherry pie filling, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge. Add it to the cheesecake right before serving to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake at its best, whether you’re serving it immediately or saving it for later.

Variations

1. Blueberry Chocolate Cheesecake: For a twist on the classic cherry topping, swap the cherry pie filling with blueberry pie filling. The sweet, slightly tart blueberries pair beautifully with the rich chocolate cheesecake filling, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

2. Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake: Raspberries add a vibrant color and tangy flavor that complements the creamy chocolate cheesecake perfectly. Use raspberry pie filling or fresh raspberries on top for a refreshing and slightly tart variation.

3. Mint Chocolate Cheesecake: If you’re a fan of mint, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling. Top with chocolate shavings and a few fresh mint leaves for a minty, chocolatey treat that’s sure to impress.

4. White Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: For a lighter, sweeter version, replace the cocoa powder with white chocolate. You can melt the white chocolate and mix it into the cheesecake filling for a creamy, luscious texture. Pair it with the cherry topping for a beautiful, indulgent dessert.

5. Oreo Crust Cheesecake: Instead of using chocolate graham cracker crumbs for the crust, try using crushed Oreos for an even more decadent base. The Oreo crust adds a rich chocolatey flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheesecake filling.

6. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake: For peanut butter lovers, add creamy peanut butter to the cheesecake filling. Swirl it into the chocolate mixture for a marbled effect, or layer it for extra richness. You can top it with chopped peanuts or peanut butter cups for added texture.

7. Mocha Chocolate Cheesecake: For a coffee-chocolate combo, add a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the cheesecake filling. This will give the dessert a rich mocha flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and cherry combination.

8. Nutty Chocolate Cheesecake: Add some crunch by mixing chopped nuts (like walnuts, pecans, or almonds) into the cheesecake filling or sprinkling them on top. The nuts add texture and complement the smooth, creamy filling.

9. No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Bars: For a more portable version of this cheesecake, press the crust into a baking dish and layer the cheesecake filling on top. Slice it into bars for a fun, easy-to-serve treat that’s perfect for parties or picnics.

10. Tropical Chocolate Cheesecake: Change up the topping by using tropical fruits like pineapple or mango. For added flair, drizzle with a little coconut cream or sprinkle toasted coconut on top. The tropical fruits will add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate base.

These variations allow you to get creative and customize your No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake to suit your flavor preferences or dietary needs, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as the last!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of crust? Yes, you can use a variety of crusts! While chocolate graham cracker crumbs work wonderfully, you can also use regular graham cracker crumbs, Oreo cookie crumbs, or even a crushed pretzel crust for a salty-sweet combination.

2. How can I make this cheesecake dairy-free? To make this cheesecake dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy heavy whipping cream alternative. You can also substitute the butter in the crust with a dairy-free butter or coconut oil.

3. Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan? Yes, you can use a regular pie dish or a round cake pan. Just be sure to line the pan with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cheesecake after it has set.

4. How long do I need to freeze or refrigerate the cheesecake? The cheesecake needs at least 3 hours in the freezer or overnight in the refrigerator to fully set. Freezing the cheesecake will give it a firmer texture, while refrigerating it will keep it creamy and smooth.

5. Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling? Absolutely! You can use fresh cherries, but keep in mind that you’ll need to sweeten them and possibly cook them down a bit with some sugar to mimic the consistency of pie filling. This will add a fresh and natural fruit flavor to the cheesecake.

6. How can I make the cheesecake less sweet? If you prefer a less sweet cheesecake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. Additionally, opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to tone down the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.

7. Can I use a different type of topping? Yes, feel free to experiment with different toppings like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of fresh fruits. You can also top the cheesecake with chocolate ganache, crushed nuts, or caramel sauce.

8. Can I make this cheesecake in individual servings? Yes, you can make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins or small jars. Just make sure to adjust the crust and filling amounts accordingly, and chill or freeze the mini cheesecakes until they set.

9. How can I prevent the cheesecake from being too soft? Ensure the cream cheese is well-beaten and the whipping cream is properly incorporated into the mixture. Chilling the cheesecake long enough (preferably overnight) will help it firm up. If it’s still too soft, you can add a bit of gelatin to the filling mixture to give it extra structure.

10. Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free? Yes, you can make the cheesecake gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers or an alternative gluten-free crust. Many store-bought pie fillings are gluten-free, but always check the label to make sure.

These FAQs cover some of the most common questions people have when making No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake. Whether you need to adapt it for dietary preferences or just want to experiment with different flavors, this cheesecake is versatile and customizable!

No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves chocolate and cherries, but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With a chocolate graham cracker crust, smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, and a tangy cherry topping, this dessert checks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare, absolutely delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering or as a special treat for yourself. The rich flavors and simple preparation make it a must-try for every dessert lover!

Print