Dark chocolate cherry cheesecake recipe

This dark chocolate cherry cheesecake starts with a crisp chocolate cookie crust, layered with a rich dark chocolate cheesecake filling, and topped with homemade cherry compote. Each bite combines velvety chocolate and bright, juicy cherries — the perfect harmony of sweet and tart. If you’re new to baking cheesecakes, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof. The creamy filling bakes evenly, and the cherry topping adds just the right pop of flavor.

Dark chocolate cherry cheesecake no bake

Yes, you can absolutely make a no-bake version of this recipe! Instead of eggs, use melted chocolate or gelatin to stabilize the filling. Chill it overnight to achieve that smooth, set texture. The no-bake version is perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven — just as creamy and indulgent, with less effort.

Dark chocolate cherry cheesecake Philadelphia

For the smoothest texture and richest taste, always use Philadelphia cream cheese . It’s known for its silky consistency and classic flavor, which perfectly complements the deep notes of dark chocolate. Let the cream cheese reach room temperature before mixing to ensure a lump-free, creamy filling.

Best dark chocolate cherry cheesecake

The best dark chocolate cherry cheesecake strikes a balance between sweetness, richness, and fruitiness. Our version combines a baked chocolate cheesecake base with tart cherry topping and fresh whipped cream for a restaurant-quality dessert you can make at home. Add chocolate curls, cherry syrup drizzle, and a dollop of whipped cream for that bakery-style finish everyone will love.

Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe – The Best Dark Chocolate Cherry

Description

This Black Forest Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and cherry lovers. A velvety dark chocolate cheesecake rests on a buttery cookie crust, topped with luscious cherry filling and soft whipped cream. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any time you crave a showstopping sweet, this cheesecake delivers deep chocolate richness and bright cherry flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese (Philadelphia recommended), softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
8 oz dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cherry Topping:

2 cups cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For Garnish:

1 cup whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
Fresh cherries and chocolate curls

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Combine crushed cookies and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8 minutes and set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and melted dark chocolate until fully blended.
Bake: Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Bake for 50–55 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to fully set.
Top with Cherries: Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
Garnish and Serve: Top with whipped cream, chocolate curls, and fresh cherries before serving. Slice with a warm, dry knife for clean cuts.

Notes

For a no-bake version, skip the eggs and mix 1 tbsp melted gelatin (bloomed) into the filling; chill overnight to set.

Always use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth texture.

For extra flavor, stir 1 tsp espresso powder into the chocolate mixture.

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese filling.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 36 g
Sodium: 240 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 46 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: Black Forest Cheesecake, dark chocolate cherry cheesecake, chocolate cheesecake, cherry dessert