Print

Black Forest Cheesecake

Black Forest Cheesecake
Print Recipe

Experience the rich, creamy delight of Black Forest Cheesecake—a decadent fusion of smooth cheesecake, luscious chocolate, and tart cherries. This easy-to-make dessert balances texture and flavor perfectly, impressing guests and making any occasion special. With simple ingredients and customizable layers, it’s a show-stopping treat that can be prepared ahead for convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Cookie Crust

  • 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons melted butter

Cheesecake Filling

  • 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chunks or chips

Cherry Topping

  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling or 2 cups fresh/frozen cherries macerated with sugar

Optional

  • Whipped cream for topping
  • Chocolate shavings for garnish
  • Fresh cherry halves for garnish
  • Crushed toasted almonds or hazelnuts (for nutty twist)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Crush chocolate cookies into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even base. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar while mixing. Incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract. Gently fold in dark chocolate chunks evenly without breaking the texture.
  3. Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until edges are set and center slightly jiggles when shaken gently. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracks.
  4. Add the Cherry Topping: Once cooled completely, spread cherry pie filling or fresh cherry compote evenly over the cheesecake top to add tartness and vibrant color.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set. Serve chilled with optional whipped cream and garnish as desired.

Notes

  • Always use cream cheese and eggs at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Bake cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracks and ensure even cooking.
  • Avoid overmixing to keep the cheesecake creamy with minimal air bubbles.
  • Allow sufficient chilling time for perfect texture and flavor blending.
  • Use quality cherry pie filling or fresh cherries for authentic taste.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated up to 4 days and freeze well for 2 months.
  • Do not reheat cheesecake; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Black Forest Cheesecake, chocolate cheesecake, cherry cheesecake, German dessert, gluten free cheesecake, berry cheesecake, decadent dessert

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/black-forest-cheesecake/