Celebrate the delight of homemade desserts with this Cherished Cherry and Chocolate Cheesecake, a treat that combines the rich flavors of fresh cherries and smooth chocolate with a creamy, luxurious cheesecake filling. Resting on a crumbly, buttery crust and topped with a luscious cherry layer, this cheesecake is not just a dessert; it's an experience to be shared and savored. Whether it's a special gathering or a quiet afternoon, this cheesecake promises to steal the show.
Why You'll Love This: This cheesecake recipe is a labor of love that pays off with every bite, offering a perfect blend of tangy cherries and decadent chocolate. The texture is creamy yet firm, with bursts of fruit and chocolate that melt in your mouth. It's an excellent choice for those who appreciate the timeless pairing of chocolate and cherries, and its elegant appearance makes it a perfect fit for any festive occasion.
Perfect Occasion: This cheesecake is ideal for celebrations, be it birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings. It's also perfect for a weekend baking project that ends in a delightful treat for family and friends. Given its universal appeal, it can be a centerpiece dessert at potlucks or a comforting treat to brighten a regular day.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cheesecake once it has cooled. A few whole cherries placed atop the cake will enhance its visual appeal and hint at the delicious filling beneath. If you're feeling creative, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or chocolate shavings can add a final flourish that makes this cake even more irresistible.
Ingredients:
- Crust:
- 400g all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 100g sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 whole egg + 1 egg yolk
- 200g cold butter
- Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 eggs
- 100g sugar
- 1 kg smooth cottage cheese
- 1 packet vanilla pudding mix
- 1 flat tablespoon potato starch
- Additional:
- 400g cherry fruit spread (or any other fruit spread)
- 50g dark or milk chocolate, chopped
Instructions:
- In a mixer bowl, combine all crust ingredients and knead into a dough using a paddle attachment or by hand. Divide the dough into three parts; press two parts into a 28x19 cm baking dish and freeze the third part.
- For the filling, combine cottage cheese, eggs, pudding mix, potato starch, and sugar in the mixer bowl. Blend briefly until smooth, then stir in the chopped chocolate. Pour this mixture over the prepared crust.
- Evenly spread the cherry fruit spread over the cheese mixture, gently swirling with a stick for a marbled effect.
- Grate the frozen dough part over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 1 hour. Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate to chill thoroughly.
Indulge in this exquisite Cherry and Chocolate Cheesecake, a dessert that's sure to become a beloved classic in your recipe collection!