This showstopping dessert layers rich chocolate cheesecake, a buttery Oreo crust, and luscious cherry topping for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for special occasions or when you crave something truly luxurious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Restaurant-quality – Looks and tastes professional
✅ Make-ahead friendly – Chill overnight for best results
✅ Perfect flavor balance – Tangy cherries + deep chocolate
✅ Crowd-pleasing – Guaranteed to impress
Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Crust
- 2 cups Oreo crumbs (about 24 cookies)
- 6 tbsp melted butter
For the Cheesecake
- 24 oz (3 packs) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup melted semi-sweet chocolate
For the Cherry Topping
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Mix Oreo crumbs and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then cool.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, sour cream, cocoa powder, and melted chocolate.
- Pour over crust.
3. Bake & Chill
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes until set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool in oven with door ajar 1 hour, then refrigerate 6+ hours.
4. Make Cherry Topping
- Simmer cherries, sugar, and lemon juice 5 minutes.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry, cook until thickened. Cool completely.
5. Serve
- Top cheesecake with cherries. Garnish with chocolate shavings.
Pro Tips
🍫 Smooth filling: All ingredients must be at room temperature.
🍒 Extra shine: Brush cherry topping with 1 tbsp cherry jam.
⏳ No cracks: Bake in a water bath for even cooking.
Variations
☕ Mocha: Add 1 tbsp instant espresso to filling
🌰 Nutty: Sprinkle toasted almonds on top
🍊 Citrus twist: Use blackberry topping instead
FAQs
Can I use canned cherries?
Yes! Drain first, reduce sugar to 2 tbsp.
How to store?
Fridge 4 days or freeze 1 month (without topping).
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use GF chocolate cookies for crust.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake is pure decadence—creamy, rich, and bursting with fruity flavor. Perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or any chocolate lover’s celebration!
Tip: Serve with whipped cream for extra luxury! 🍒🍫
(Tag your creations #ChocolateCherryDream!)