Description

This Black Forest Cheesecake is a decadent dessert combining the rich flavors of chocolate cheesecake, sweet cherry filling, and a crisp cookie crust. Inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, this indulgent treat is topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and juicy cherries, making it a show-stopping dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling:

24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup sour cream
8 oz dark chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Topping:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1 tablespoon kirsch (optional, for authentic Black Forest flavor)

For Garnish:

1 cup whipped cream
Chocolate shavings or curls
Fresh cherries (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add sour cream and melted chocolate, mixing until fully combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) before topping.
Prepare the Cherry Topping:
- Mix cherry pie filling with kirsch (if using) and spoon it over the chilled cheesecake.
Garnish and Serve:
- Pipe whipped cream around the edges and sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
- Add fresh cherries on top for an elegant finish.

Notes

For a no-bake version, replace the baked cheesecake with a no-bake chocolate cheesecake filling and let it set in the fridge.
Kirsch enhances the cherry flavor, but you can omit it if preferred.
Cheesecake is best made a day in advance for optimal flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 4–6 hours
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking, Chilling
Cuisine: German-American