Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Black Forest Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the indulgence of the classic Black Forest cake. With a chocolate cookie crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and layers of sweet cherries, this dessert strikes the perfect balance of creamy, chocolaty, and fruity flavors. It is finished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, giving it both elegance and indulgence. This recipe is ideal for celebrations, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. While it appears sophisticated, the process is straightforward, making it accessible for home bakers. The pairing of cherries and chocolate provides a timeless flavor combination, while the creamy cheesecake base adds a luxurious texture. If you are looking for a dessert that is both decadent and memorable, Black Forest Cheesecake is an excellent choice.
Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe: Decadent and Creamy
- Total Time: 6 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent Black Forest Cheesecake with a rich chocolate cookie crust, creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping finished with whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, combine cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in sour cream, then add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined.
- Stir in melted chocolate and vanilla until fully incorporated.
- Pour cheesecake batter over prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top cheesecake with cherry pie filling.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Pipe or spread whipped cream around the edges.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and serve chilled.
Notes
- For best results, use a water bath to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
- Chill cheesecake overnight for the richest flavor and texture.
- You can make homemade cherry topping instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the indulgent layers of this cheesecake.
Chocolate cookies form the base crust, offering a crunchy, bittersweet contrast to the creamy filling.
Butter binds the cookie crumbs together, giving the crust structure and richness.
Cream cheese is the heart of the cheesecake, providing a smooth, velvety texture and a slightly tangy flavor.
Granulated sugar sweetens the filling, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.
Eggs give the cheesecake structure, helping it set while staying creamy.
Sour cream adds a subtle tang and helps achieve a silky-smooth filling.
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and balances the intensity of chocolate and cherries.
Dark chocolate melted into the batter, brings deep, luxurious flavor to the cheesecake.
Cherry pie filling delivers fruity sweetness and the iconic Black Forest flavor.
Whipped cream provides lightness and decorative appeal when topping the cheesecake.
Chocolate shavings finish the dessert with elegance and a touch of texture.
Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper and greasing the sides.
For the crust, crush the chocolate cookies into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter, and press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Chill the crust while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently to avoid incorporating too much air. Stir in sour cream, vanilla, and melted dark chocolate until the batter is uniform and silky.
Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top. Bake in a water bath for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually to prevent cracks. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Before serving, spread cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake. Decorate with whipped cream swirls around the edges and garnish with chocolate shavings. Slice and enjoy this decadent dessert.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 12 servings. Preparation takes about 25 minutes, baking requires 1 hour, and cooling/refrigerating takes at least 4 hours. The total time is approximately 5 ½ hours.
Storage/reheating
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Cheesecake should not be reheated, but served chilled.
Variations and Customizations
Mini cheesecakes
Bake the mixture in muffin tins for individual servings.
Alcohol twist
Add a splash of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the filling for authentic Black Forest flavor.
Brownie crust
Swap the cookie base for a fudgy brownie layer for extra indulgence.
White chocolate version
Use white chocolate instead of dark for a lighter, sweeter twist.
Fresh cherries
Top with fresh pitted cherries instead of canned filling for a fresher flavor.
Chocolate ganache layer
Add a layer of ganache between the cheesecake and cherry topping for extra richness.
Nut crust
Replace cookies with ground almonds or hazelnuts for a nutty base.
Vegan option
Use plant-based cream cheese, non-dairy chocolate, and coconut cream whipped topping.
Marbled effect
Swirl cherry sauce into the cheesecake filling before baking for a marbled look.
Extra chocolate topping
Drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cheesecake for a dramatic finish.
FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it is best prepared a day in advance as it needs time to chill.
Do I need a water bath for baking?
A water bath helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, cook fresh cherries with sugar and cornstarch to make your own topping.
How do I prevent cracks in cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing, bake in a water bath, and let it cool gradually.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What type of chocolate works best?
High-quality dark chocolate (around 60–70% cocoa) offers the richest flavor.
Conclusion
Black Forest Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that beautifully combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity sweetness of cherries and the depth of chocolate. Perfect for celebrations or indulgent weekends, this dessert offers a balance of flavors and textures that delight both the eyes and the palate. With its chocolate cookie crust, velvety filling, and vibrant cherry topping, it is a recipe that feels both classic and contemporary. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee or serve it as the centerpiece of a festive gathering, Black Forest Cheesecake is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
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