Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesecake is a perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and chocolaty flavors that create a stunning dessert experience. It’s elegant yet approachable, ideal for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with a show-stopping dessert. The combination of tart cherries and rich chocolate complements the smooth cheesecake beautifully.
Ingredients
For the crust:
-
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
-
24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
3 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
1/2 cup cherry pie filling or cherry preserves
-
1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional for extra chocolate flavor)
For the topping:
-
1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
-
1 cup heavy whipping cream
-
2 tbsp powdered sugar
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then cool. -
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
Stir in vanilla, sour cream, cherry pie filling, and cocoa powder if using.
Pour filling over the cooled crust. -
Bake:
Bake for 50-60 minutes until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. -
Prepare Whipped Cream:
Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. -
Assemble and Serve:
Spread whipped cream over chilled cheesecake.
Top with cherry pie filling or fresh cherries and chocolate shavings.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 12
-
Prep time: 30 minutes
-
Bake time: 60 minutes
-
Chill time: 4+ hours
-
Total time: About 5 hours
Variations
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Cherry Layer: Add a layer of cherry preserves between crust and filling.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the top instead of whipped cream.
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Nutty Crust: Add chopped nuts to the crust mixture.
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Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream.
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Liqueur: Add a splash of cherry liqueur or brandy to the filling.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Freeze cheesecake wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
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Reheating: Serve chilled; do not heat.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used for topping or in the filling after cooking them down slightly.
How do I prevent cracks?
Bake with a water bath or let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead?
Yes, it’s best made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
Can I use regular pie filling?
Yes, any cherry pie filling or preserves work well.
How do I remove the cheesecake from the pan?
Run a knife around the edges before releasing the springform.
Can I use a different crust?
Yes, graham cracker or nut crusts are great alternatives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
How do I get the whipped cream to hold?
Use cold heavy cream and beat until stiff peaks form.
Can I add more chocolate?
Yes, add cocoa powder to filling or sprinkle chocolate chips.
What’s the best way to serve?
Serve chilled with extra cherries and whipped cream.
Conclusion
Black Forest Cheesecake is a luscious dessert that beautifully marries creamy cheesecake with the classic flavors of chocolate and cherries. With its rich texture and vibrant toppings, it’s an impressive yet approachable treat perfect for celebrations or any special occasion.
Black Forest Cheesecake
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: About 5 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Black Forest Cheesecake is a decadent dessert combining rich, creamy cheesecake with luscious chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream. Featuring a chocolate cookie crust and topped with cherry compote and chocolate shavings, it’s an elegant treat perfect for special occasions or any time you want to impress.
Ingredients
For the crust:
-
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreo, no filling)
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
-
24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
3 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
1/2 cup cherry pie filling or cherry preserves
-
1/4 cup cocoa powder (optional)
For the topping:
-
1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
-
1 cup heavy whipping cream
-
2 tbsp powdered sugar
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Mix cookie crumbs and melted butter.
Press into bottom of 9-inch springform pan.
Bake 10 minutes; cool. -
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
Stir in vanilla, sour cream, cherry pie filling, and cocoa powder if using.
Pour over cooled crust. -
Bake:
Bake 50–60 minutes until center is nearly set but slightly jiggly.
Turn off oven, crack door, cool inside 1 hour.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. -
Prepare Whipped Cream:
Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. -
Assemble and Serve:
Spread whipped cream over chilled cheesecake.
Top with cherry pie filling or fresh cherries and chocolate shavings.
Notes
Add cherry preserves layer between crust and filling for extra fruitiness.Drizzle chocolate ganache instead of whipped cream for richness.Add chopped nuts to crust for crunch.Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for dairy-free version.
