Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted 🧈
For the Cheesecake:
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened 🧀
- 1/2 cup sugar 🍬
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
- 2 eggs 🥚
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
For the Topping and Garnish:
- 1 cup cherry pie filling 🍒
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish) 🍫
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup melted butter.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even layer. Set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until creamy and smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and unsweetened cocoa powder until fully combined.
3️⃣ Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Gently dollop cherry pie filling on top of the cheesecake layer.
- Create a stunning marbled effect by swirling the cherry pie filling into the cheesecake using a knife or skewer.
4️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake:
- Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature.
5️⃣ Chill and Garnish:
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings and an optional scoop of cherry pie filling for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when mixing the batter to prevent incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks.
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Water Bath for Even Baking: If you want to prevent cracks, place the springform pan in a water bath during baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes