There's nothing quite like the rich, velvety taste of Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its luscious chocolate crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a vibrant cherry topping, this dessert is pure indulgence in every bite.

I first made this cheesecake for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. The combination of deep chocolate and tart cherries struck the perfect balance, making it one of my go-to desserts for special occasions. Now, I can't imagine celebrating without it!

Why You'll Love This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is guaranteed to impress, whether you're serving it for a holiday, birthday, or just because you’re craving something decadent.

First, it's incredibly rich and creamy. The smooth, chocolate-infused cheesecake filling melts in your mouth, creating a luxurious texture that feels like a special treat.

It’s also a showstopper. With a glossy cherry topping draping over the chocolate cheesecake, this dessert looks as beautiful as it tastes, making it the perfect centerpiece for any table.

Not to mention, it’s easier than you think to make. With a few simple steps and some chilling time, you’ll have a bakery-quality cheesecake right from your own kitchen.

Finally, this cheesecake is the perfect balance of flavors. The bittersweet chocolate pairs wonderfully with the tangy cherries, ensuring that every bite is a mix of sweet, tart, and rich indulgence.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake comes from its carefully chosen ingredients, each playing a key role in creating the perfect dessert.

The chocolate cookie crust is the perfect base. I recommend using crushed chocolate wafer cookies or Oreo crumbs mixed with melted butter to form a firm and flavorful foundation.

For the cheesecake filling, cream cheese is the star. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. A touch of sour cream adds smoothness, while melted dark chocolate infuses the filling with deep, rich flavor.

Sweetness comes from granulated sugar, but don't forget a teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the overall depth of the filling.

For the cherry topping, you can use fresh or canned cherries. If using fresh, cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick, glossy sauce. If using canned cherry pie filling, choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

A springform pan is essential for this recipe to ensure the cheesecake bakes evenly and releases cleanly from the pan after chilling.

How To Make This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake

Making this cheesecake is simpler than you might expect. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a decadent dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

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

While the crust cools, make the cheesecake filling. Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Stir in the melted chocolate, sour cream, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake the cheesecake in a water bath at 325°F for about 50-60 minutes. The center should be slightly jiggly but set at the edges.

Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool gradually inside for an hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to allow it to set completely.

Finally, prepare the cherry topping. If using fresh cherries, cook them with sugar and cornstarch until thick and syrupy. If using canned cherry pie filling, simply spoon it over the chilled cheesecake.

Storage Options

This cheesecake stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

If you have leftovers, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Use a cake container or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake (without the cherry topping) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and add the cherry topping before serving.

To reheat a slice, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to bring back its creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative!

For a white chocolate twist, swap the dark chocolate in the filling for melted white chocolate. This creates a sweeter, creamier flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.

Want to make it gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust, and you're all set.

If you love a boozy twist, try adding a splash of cherry liqueur (such as Kirsch) to the cherry topping for an extra depth of flavor.

For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts over the cherry topping before serving.

No fresh cherries? No problem! You can use raspberry or strawberry topping instead for a delicious variation.

With so many ways to customize this Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake, there’s no limit to how you can make it your own. Give it a try and see why this dessert is a favorite in so many homes!