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Black Forest Cheesecake: A Decadent Dessert Delight


  • Total Time: 6.5 hours
  • Yield: 10-12 slices 1x

Description

“Indulge in the rich decadence of Black Forest Cheesecake! This luscious dessert features a chocolate cookie crust, creamy chocolate cheesecake, and a cherry topping with whipped cream. Perfect for any occasion!”


Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

  • 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

  • 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

  1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is blended before adding the next.
  4. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream.
  5. Sift in cocoa powder and mix until combined.
  6. Fold in melted semi-sweet chocolate until batter is smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
  2. Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water until halfway up the sides (to prevent cracks).
  3. Bake for 55-60 minutes until the center is slightly set but still jiggles.
  4. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
  5. Remove and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Add the Topping

  1. Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
  2. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
  3. Pipe or spread whipped cream around the edges.
  4. Garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired.

Notes

  • Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for an intense cocoa flavor.
  • Boozy Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the cheesecake batter.
  • Fresh Cherries: Use homemade cherry compote or fresh cherries instead of canned filling.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: German-Inspired

Keywords: Chocolate cheesecake, Black Forest dessert, cherry cheesecake, rich chocolate cheesecake, holiday dessert