Ingredients:
– 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup sour cream
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup melted dark chocolate
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup sugar (for cherry filling)
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Whipped cream (for topping)
– Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
– Extra cherries (for decoration)
Directions:
1. Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine your chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until everything is well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Pop it in the oven for 10 minutes and let it cool completely afterward.
2. Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until it’s super smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix well. Then, mix in the sour cream. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in the melted dark chocolate and vanilla extract until you have a beautifully creamy mixture.
3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour your cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour—this helps avoid cracks! After that, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours (or overnight, if you can resist).
4. Make the Cherry Filling: In a saucepan, mix together the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Cook this combo over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Let it cool completely before using it on your cheesecake.
5. Assemble and Serve: When you’re ready to serve, top your chilled cheesecake with the cherry filling, feeling free to be generous! Finish it off with dollops of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, and a few extra cherries for that perfect pop!
Enjoy this delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!
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