Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re searching for a truly decadent dessert that will make any occasion memorable, look no further than this Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake. Rich, silky cream cheese melds seamlessly with intense cocoa and dark chocolate, while a ribbon of bright, tangy raspberry sauce weaves through every bite. It’s the ultimate treat for chocolate and berry lovers alike, balancing luscious flavor with just the right touch of tartness and crunch. Whether you’re celebrating or simply indulging, this cheesecake is irresistible from first forkful to last crumb.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this cheesecake comes from a handful of essential ingredients, each one playing a special role in making the finished dessert unforgettable. Here’s what you need, plus a few tips to help ensure your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake is the star of any gathering.

• Graham crackers: The finely crushed crackers create a deliciously crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• White sugar: Provides sweetness for both the crust and raspberry sauce.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crust and adds a rich, golden flavor.
• Cocoa powder: Gives the crust a chocolaty twist that pairs beautifully with the filling.
• Cream cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for that ultra-creamy, smooth body.
• Sugar: Sweetens the filling and enhances the creaminess of the cheesecake.
• Sour cream: Brings just a hint of tang and keeps the filling irresistibly tender.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and smooths out any sharpness from the cream cheese.
• Salt: Just a pinch rounds out all the sweet and rich notes in the filling.
• Eggs: Bind the filling and create that classic cheesecake texture.
• Dark chocolate bar: Shave this over the top for an elegant, bittersweet finish.
• Fresh raspberries: Use these both in the sauce and as a sparkling, juicy garnish.
• Powdered sugar: Sifted on top, it looks beautiful and gives a sweet, snowy effect.
• Water: Creates the base for the raspberry sauce.
• Lemon zest and juice: Brightens and intensifies the flavor of the raspberry sauce.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the raspberry sauce so it drapes beautifully over each slice.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9-inch springform pan generously. To safeguard against spills during the water bath, wrap the sides with foil. This little step is insurance for a picture-perfect Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake.

Step 2: Create the Chocolatey Graham Crust

In a medium bowl, mix your crushed graham crackers, sugar, melted butter, and cocoa powder until everything is thoroughly combined. Use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan—it should feel tight and even, without gaps.

Step 3: Bake and Cool the Crust

Pop the pan on the middle rack for about 10 minutes just to set the crust. This way, it holds up even after the rich filling is poured on top. Once done, let the crust cool while you lower the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the cream cheese until it’s super smooth. Gradually add sugar, mixing until everything is creamy and lump-free. Next, blend in the sour cream, vanilla, and salt. When those are well incorporated, add the eggs one at a time on low speed—mixing just until combined so the filling stays light and velvety.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake in a Water Bath

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and gently smooth the top. Nestle your foil-covered pan into a large roasting pan, then fill with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes; when it’s done, the edges will be set but the center will have just a soft wobble. Patience pays off for a flawless Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake.

Step 6: Cool the Cheesecake Gradually

Turn off the oven, crack the door open an inch, and let your cheesecake chill for another hour inside. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks and ensures each slice is as lovely as the last.

Step 7: Chill Overnight

Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and transfer it to the fridge. Let it rest overnight for the flavors to deepen and the texture to set to perfection. The next day, run a paring knife around the inside edge before releasing the springform ring.

Step 8: Simmer the Raspberry Sauce

In a small pot, combine sugar, water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle boil, then add the fresh raspberries. Stir in your pre-mixed cornstarch slurry and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring so it turns glossy and thick. Let it steep, strain out the solids, and chill until ready—this sauce absolutely sings on top of every slice!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Pour cooled raspberry sauce over your cheesecake, and go wild with fresh raspberries and artful dark chocolate shavings. A fine dusting of powdered sugar is the final flourish before you dive in.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

Garnishes

The real beauty of this dessert is in the finishing touches. Top your Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake with a generous swirl of raspberry sauce, a handful of plump fresh raspberries, and a dramatic shower of dark chocolate shavings. For a little extra sparkle, sift powdered sugar over each slice right before serving. If you’re feeling bold, add a few sprigs of fresh mint for a pop of green—it’s both beautiful and aromatic!

Side Dishes

This cheesecake is so rich and special, it truly doesn’t demand much by its side. However, for a well-rounded dessert table, consider pairing with a bowl of softly whipped vanilla cream, a scattering of additional berries, or shot glasses of raspberry liqueur for the adults. A cup of bold coffee or a flute of sparkling wine is always a wonderful way to round out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your creativity shine by serving individual slices on slate or colored plates to make the deep tones pop. For parties, try turning the cheesecake into elegant parfaits by layering crumbled crust, cheesecake cubes, and raspberry sauce in clear glasses. Or go classic and serve the entire Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake on a gorgeous cake stand with tall candles for a truly festive showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cheesecake will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. The flavors only meld and improve after a night or two, making every sneaky midnight slice even better.

Freezing

Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake freezes surprisingly well! For best results, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

In general, cheesecake is best served chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly softer bite, set your slice out on the counter for about 20-30 minutes before eating. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the creamy consistency and melt your gorgeous garnishes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries in the sauce?

Absolutely! Frozen raspberries work beautifully when fresh aren’t available—just thaw and drain them before using to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

Why bake the cheesecake in a water bath?

The water bath gently insulates the cheesecake, creating even heat that helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture exceptionally creamy. It’s worth the extra step for a professional bakery finish!

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

Look for edges that are set and a center that’s just slightly jiggly. The residual heat will finish cooking the center as it cools, ensuring each slice stays lush and moist.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, just swap out regular graham crackers for a gluten-free variety. Every other ingredient in the Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake is naturally gluten-free, so no further adjustments are needed.

What’s the best way to get clean cheesecake slices?

Use a thin, sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between every cut. This trick glides through the cheesecake, leaving you with gorgeous, picture-perfect slices every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Dark Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake enough. Every bite is pure dessert magic—rich, smooth, and just the right amount of fruity sparkle. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or just treating yourself, this cheesecake promises to turn any day into a celebration. Dive in, spoon up some joy, and savor the moment!

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