Name: Black Forest Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 6 h
Cuisine: German-American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate cookies or brownie crumbs; 3 tbsp melted butter (for crust); 24 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream; 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled; 1 can cherry pie filling or 2 cups fresh cherries; 1 tbsp gelatin (optional, for stabilizing cherry topping); Whipped cream for topping (optional)

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Black Forest Cheesecake is a decadent fusion of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and juicy cherries. This stunning dessert layers flavors and textures in a showstopping presentation perfect for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesecake combines the classic appeal of Black Forest cake with the smooth richness of a cheesecake. The layers of chocolate, cream, and cherries offer a perfect balance of indulgent sweetness and slight tartness. It’s visually impressive and irresistibly delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate cookie or brownie crust
Cream cheese
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Sour cream or heavy cream
Vanilla extract
Semi-sweet chocolate (melted)
Cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
Gelatin (optional, for topping)
Whipped cream (optional)

directions

Prepare the Crust: Press crushed chocolate cookies or brownie base into a springform pan. Bake briefly, then cool.
Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and melted chocolate.
Bake: Pour filling over crust and bake in a water bath until set.
Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool gradually, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Top: Spoon cherry pie filling or fresh cherries over the top. Add whipped cream if desired.
Serve: Slice with a hot knife for clean edges.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 slices.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 1 hour
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: About 6 hours

Variations

No-Bake Version: Use gelatin to stabilize the filling and skip the oven.
White Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate for a twist.
Cherry Compote: Use fresh cherry compote for a homemade topping.
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in cupcake tins for individual servings.
Boozy Addition: Add a splash of kirsch or cherry liqueur.

storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 5 days. Cheesecake can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap in plastic and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherries?

Yes, cherry pie filling or canned cherries in syrup work well for the topping.

How do I avoid cracks in the cheesecake?

Use a water bath and avoid overmixing. Let it cool slowly to prevent cracking.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cheesecake is best when made a day in advance and chilled thoroughly.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, graham cracker, brownie, or chocolate cookie crusts are all great choices.

How long should it cool before serving?

At least 4 hours in the fridge, though overnight is ideal for best texture.

Can I add whipped cream on top?

Yes, whipped cream complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Do I need a springform pan?

It’s highly recommended for easy removal and presentation.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, thaw and drain them first or cook into a compote.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cookies for the crust to make the dessert gluten-free.

What’s the best way to slice it cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping clean between slices.

Conclusion

Black Forest Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that’s sure to impress both visually and in flavor. With its creamy base, rich chocolate notes, and vibrant cherry topping, it’s the perfect finish to any celebration or special dinner.

Black Forest Cheesecake

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Black Forest Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert blending rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and a juicy cherry topping. It delivers indulgent flavor and an elegant presentation, making it perfect for special occasions.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 6 hours
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: German-American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a springform pan with parchment paper.
Combine crushed chocolate cookies or brownie crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the pan. Bake for 10 minutes and cool.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Stir in vanilla, sour cream, and melted chocolate.
Pour filling over the cooled crust. Place the pan in a water bath and bake for about 1 hour or until center is set.
Turn off oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool slowly for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Top with cherry pie filling or prepared fresh cherries. Stabilize with gelatin if desired.
Add whipped cream decoratively on top if using.
Slice with a hot knife for clean cuts and serve chilled.