Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake

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Quick Benefits

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines rich, creamy cheesecake with bursts of sweet cherries and a decadent chocolate ganache. It’s the perfect treat for holidays, birthdays, or romantic evenings. The water bath technique ensures a silky-smooth texture, while the cherry-chocolate combo adds a refreshing twist to traditional cheesecake.

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Essential Ingredients

• Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tbsp melted butter
• Cheesecake Filling:
  • 3 (8 oz) packages full-fat cream cheese
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup International Delight Sweet Cream Creamer
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cherries
• Chocolate Ganache:
  • ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
  • ¾ cup chocolate chips
• Toppings:
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Fresh cherries

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Preparation Steps

1. Make the Crust:

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Mix chocolate graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until sandy.
• Press into the bottom of a foil-lined 8″ round pan.
• Bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool completely.

2. Prepare Cheesecake:

• Beat cream cheese until fluffy.
• Add sugar and vanilla; beat again.
• Mix in creamer.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
• Fold in chopped cherries and pour over the cooled crust.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Place the cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with hot water (about 1 inch deep).
• Bake at 325°F for 60 minutes or until the center slightly jiggles.
• Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door cracked for 60–90 minutes.
• Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

4. Make the Ganache:

• Heat heavy cream and pour it over chocolate chips.
• Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
• Cool slightly.

5. Assemble:

• Pour ganache over chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.
• Garnish with mini chocolate chips and fresh cherries.
• Slice and serve chilled.

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Health Benefits

• Cherries offer antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Dark chocolate (from chips and ganache) contains flavonoids which support heart health.
• Cream cheese provides calcium and vitamin A, but should be enjoyed in moderation.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve slices on chilled plates with an extra drizzle of ganache or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
• A sprig of mint or dollop of whipped cream makes for a picture-perfect dessert.
• Pair with coffee, espresso, or sweet dessert wine.

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Creative Variations

• Swap cherries for raspberries or blueberries for a fresh take.
• Use Oreo cookies for a richer crust.
• Add almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

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Pro Tips

• Use a springform pan for easier removal.
• Room temperature ingredients create the creamiest filling.
• Bake in a true water bath to prevent cracks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen cherries?
A: Yes, thaw and drain them well before folding into the batter.

Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead?
A: Absolutely! It’s best when chilled overnight and can be made up to 2 days in advance.

Q: What if I don’t have chocolate graham crackers?
A: Use regular graham crackers and add 1 tbsp cocoa powder for a similar effect.

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