Immerse yourself in a delightful fusion of flavors with this no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake. It's a perfect blend of tangy cherries, a lush chocolatey crust, and creamy filling that surprises your senses. The best part? No baking is required, so it's an ideal dessert for those unplanned get-togethers or short-notice cravings.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are fairly common and can be found easily in your local supermarket. However, the chocolate graham cracker crumbs might need a bit of searching, as they are not as widely available as the regular ones. When shopping, make sure to pick high-quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor. Also, don't compromise on the cream cheese - it's the heart of your cheesecake.
No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Ingredients
Chocolate graham cracker crumbs: These are crushed chocolate-flavored crackers. They are the base of your cheesecake, offering a fabulous crunch against the creamy filling.
Brown sugar: It provides a deep, rich sweetness that complements the chocolate crust.
Butter: Helps in binding the crust ingredients and enriches the flavor.
Cream cheese: It's the main component of the cheesecake filling, giving it a creamy and tangy flavor.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the cheesecake flavor.
Heavy whipping cream: Lightens the cream cheese and makes the cheesecake texture luxuriously smooth.
White sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
Cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor in the filling.
Cherry pie filling: This is the topping, adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich chocolate cheesecake.
One reader, Goldy Howland says:
This no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake recipe is a game-changer! The creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor combined with the sweet cherry topping make it a delightful treat. Plus, it's so easy to make! I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious and impressive dessert.
Essential Techniques for Making No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
How to prepare the crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, salt, and butter in a bowl until thoroughly combined. Press the mixture evenly into a springform pan and chill.
How to make the cheesecake filling: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while stirring, until fully incorporated. Add sugar, vanilla, and salt, then beat until very smooth. Gradually add cocoa powder into the cream cheese mixture and beat on medium speed until fully incorporated.
How to assemble the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling onto the chilled crust and smooth out the top. Freeze for 3 hours or refrigerate overnight. Before serving, pour the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake.
How to serve: Slice and enjoy!
How To Make No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
Enjoy bites of tart cherries, sweet chocolate, and luscious cream cheese in one plate with this rich and decadent no-bake chocolate cheesecake!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Crust:
- 1½cupschocolate graham cracker crumbs
- ⅛cupbrown sugar,packed
- ½cupbutter,melted
- 1pinchsalt
For Cheesecake Filling:
- 16ozcream cheese,(2 packages)
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 2cupsheavy whipping cream,(1 pint)
- ½cupwhite sugar
- ⅓cupcocoa powder
- ½tspsalt
- 21ozcherry pie filling,(1 can)
Instructions
-
In a bowl, thoroughly mix the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, salt, and butter. Press evenly into a springform pan. Chill.
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In a medium bowl, place the cream cheese and beat with hand beaters until smooth. Gently pour in the cream, adding gradually while stirring, until it’s fully incorporated.
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Add the sugar, vanilla, and salt, then beat until very smooth. Scrape the sides.
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Gradually add the cocoa powder into the smooth cream-cheese mixture and beat on medium speed until it’s fully incorporated.
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Pour onto chilled crust and smooth out the top.
-
Freeze for 3 hours or refrigerate overnight.
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Before serving, pour pie filling over the cheesecake. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 704.39kcal
- Fat: 56.06g
- Saturated Fat: 32.78g
- Trans Fat: 0.57g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.05g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.38g
- Carbohydrates: 47.72g
- Fiber: 2.00g
- Sugar: 19.15g
- Protein: 6.33g
- Cholesterol: 174.39mg
- Sodium: 480.67mg
- Calcium: 124.34mg
- Potassium: 275.38mg
- Iron: 1.33mg
- Vitamin A: 556.55µg
- Vitamin C: 3.04mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
When incorporating the cocoa powder into the cream cheese mixture, it's best to sift it first to prevent any lumps. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture for your cheesecake. Also, when pressing the graham cracker crumbs into the springform pan, apply even pressure to create a firm and even crust. This will help your cheesecake hold its shape when sliced.
Time-Saving Tips for Making No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
Prep ahead: Prepare the graham cracker crust and cherry pie filling the day before to save time on the day of assembly.
Chill quickly: Place the cheesecake in the freezer for 1-2 hours instead of refrigerating overnight to speed up the setting process.
Use store-bought: Consider using store-bought cherry pie filling to save time, or use a premade chocolate crust for added convenience.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.
Quick clean-up: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking mess and save time during the final clean-up.
Substitute Ingredients For No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
chocolate graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with chocolate wafer cookies: Chocolate wafer cookies can provide a similar chocolatey flavor and crunchy texture for the crust.
brown sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar and molasses: Mixing granulated sugar and molasses can mimic the flavor and texture of brown sugar in the crust.
butter - Substitute with margarine or coconut oil: Margarine or coconut oil can be used as a non-dairy alternative to butter for the crust.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free alternative in the cheesecake filling.
heavy whipping cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a rich and creamy texture for the filling, especially for a dairy-free option.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to white sugar in the cheesecake filling.
cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder can be used as a caffeine-free alternative to cocoa powder, providing a similar chocolate flavor.
cherry pie filling - Substitute with fresh cherries cooked with sugar and cornstarch: Fresh cherries cooked with sugar and cornstarch can be used to create a homemade cherry filling with a fresher flavor.
Presentation Ideas for a Delightful No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use a circular mold to create a clean, centered presentation on the plate, and carefully remove the mold to reveal the smooth and luscious layers of the cheesecake.
Garnish with fresh cherries: Add a touch of sophistication to the dish by garnishing with fresh cherries. Choose plump, ripe cherries with vibrant color to enhance the visual appeal and provide a burst of fruity flavor that complements the rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake.
Artful drizzling: Create an artful drizzle of chocolate sauce on the plate to add a touch of decadence. Use a squeeze bottle to carefully drizzle the sauce in a graceful, abstract pattern around the cheesecake, adding a visually stunning element to the presentation.
Dust with cocoa powder: Enhance the visual allure of the dessert by delicately dusting the plate with a fine sprinkle of cocoa powder. This adds a hint of chocolate aroma and a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by incorporating delicate and colorful edible flowers as a garnish. Choose edible flowers such as pansies or violets to add a pop of color and a whimsical, gourmet touch to the dessert.
Serve on a chilled plate: Prior to plating, ensure the serving plates are chilled to create a refreshing contrast against the rich and creamy cheesecake. The cool temperature of the plate will help maintain the dessert's texture and enhance the overall dining experience.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious and opulent presentation, consider adding a delicate touch of edible gold leaf to the cheesecake. The shimmering gold accents will impart a sense of indulgence and elevate the dessert to a truly exquisite level.
Create a mirror glaze: For a modern and sophisticated presentation, consider incorporating a glossy mirror glaze on the plate. The reflective surface of the glaze will beautifully showcase the cheesecake and create a visually stunning backdrop for the dessert.
Essential Tools for Making No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for tasks such as grinding, chopping, and pureeing. It's great for making the graham cracker crumbs for the crust and for blending the cheesecake filling ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and butter for the crust, as well as for mixing the cream cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, and other ingredients for the cheesecake filling.
Springform pan: A springform pan is a type of cake pan with removable sides, making it ideal for no-bake cheesecakes. It's used to press and mold the crust and to hold the cheesecake while it sets in the refrigerator or freezer.
Hand beaters: Hand beaters, also known as electric mixers, are used to whip the cream cheese and cream together for the cheesecake filling, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.
Spatula: A spatula is handy for smoothing out the crust in the springform pan and for spreading the cheesecake filling evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so using measuring cups and spoons for ingredients like sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract is important for the success of the recipe.
Freezer or refrigerator: The freezer or refrigerator is necessary for setting the no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake. It's used to chill the crust, set the cheesecake filling, and store the finished cheesecake before serving.
Can opener: A can opener is needed to open the cherry pie filling before pouring it over the cheesecake.
Storing and Freezing No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for the no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake recipe:
- Refrigerating: cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cherry pie filling topping may make the crust a bit soggy over time, so it's best enjoyed within the first 2-3 days.
- Freezing the whole cheesecake: if you want to freeze the entire cheesecake, it's best to do so without the cherry pie filling topping. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1 month. To thaw, place the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight.
- Freezing individual slices: if you have leftovers or want to freeze individual servings, slice the cheesecake (without the cherry topping) and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 1 month. To thaw, place the desired number of slices in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Adding the cherry pie filling topping: whether you're serving the whole cheesecake or individual slices, always add the cherry pie filling topping just before serving for the best texture and appearance. If you have leftover cheesecake with the topping already added, you can still store it in the refrigerator, but the crust may become slightly soggy over time.
Interesting Trivia About No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
The no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the sweetness of cherries. It's a perfect treat for any occasion, and it's also a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings. Plus, the no-bake aspect makes it a convenient and easy dessert to prepare.
Is Making No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake recipe is quite high. The ingredients are relatively affordable and commonly found in households. The use of cherry pie filling and cocoa powder adds a delightful touch without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This No-Bake Cheesecake Healthy or Unhealthy?
This no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High in saturated fat from the cream cheese, heavy cream, and butter
- Significant amount of added sugars from the graham cracker crust, white sugar, and cherry pie filling
- Low in nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:
- Replace some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and reduced fat content
- Use a nut-based crust (like almond flour or ground walnuts) instead of graham crackers for added nutrients and healthy fats
- Reduce the amount of added sugar in the filling and opt for a homemade cherry topping using fresh or frozen cherries with minimal added sugar
- Incorporate dark chocolate (70% or higher) into the filling for added antioxidants and less sugar compared to regular cocoa powder
- Serve smaller portions and pair with fresh fruit to increase nutrient density and fiber content
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to enjoy a slice of this cheesecake occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Opinion on This No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
This no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake recipe is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and luscious cherry flavors. The smooth and creamy cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy cherry pie topping. The chocolate graham cracker crust adds a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. The recipe's simplicity makes it a great option for any occasion, and the no-bake aspect is a time-saver. It's a crowd-pleaser that will surely impress your guests with its decadent taste and beautiful presentation.
Enhance Your No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delightful Alternatives to No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake
Why trust this No-Bake Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe:
This no-bake cherry chocolate cheesecake recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the luscious sweetness of cherry pie filling. The creamy and velvety texture of the cream cheese filling, combined with the perfect balance of cocoa powder and sugar, creates a decadent dessert that is sure to impress. With the ease of preparation and the absence of baking, this recipe offers a hassle-free way to indulge in a luxurious dessert experience. Trust in the harmonious blend of flavors and the simplicity of this recipe for a delightful and satisfying dessert.
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