Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of a Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and the luscious flavors of chocolate and cherries. This dessert is a true showstopper, whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something indulgent. With layers of smooth cheesecake, a crunchy chocolate crust, and a sweet cherry topping, this cheesecake brings the classic Black Forest flavor combination to life in a completely new and exciting way.

The crust, made from chocolate cookies, provides a rich, slightly crumbly base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. The chocolate-infused cheesecake itself is decadently rich, while the cherry topping adds a burst of tart sweetness to balance the richness. A dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkling of chocolate shavings complete this indulgent dessert.

Perfect for any occasion, this Black Forest Cheesecake is sure to impress with its stunning presentation and irresistible taste. Although it may look intricate, the process is straightforward and well worth the effort. The cheesecake’s creamy texture and combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for more.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that will help you create this delectable dessert at home!

Ingredients for Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake

To make this delicious Black Forest Cheesecake, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that combine perfectly to create layers of rich flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) chocolate cookie crumbs – You can use Oreos or chocolate graham crackers for the crust. These crumbs create a deliciously rich, chocolatey base.

• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted – The butter helps bind the cookie crumbs together and creates a firm, golden crust.

• 24 ounces (680 g) cream cheese, softened – Cream cheese is the base of the cheesecake filling, giving it a smooth and creamy texture.

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar – Sugar adds sweetness to the cheesecake filling and helps balance the flavors.

• 1/4 cup (25 g) cocoa powder – The cocoa powder gives the cheesecake its deep chocolate flavor.

• 3 large eggs – Eggs are essential for setting the cheesecake and creating its smooth texture.

• 8 ounces (225 g) semisweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled – Semisweet chocolate adds a rich, chocolatey depth to the filling.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cheesecake and complements the chocolate.

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream – Heavy cream makes the filling rich and velvety.

• 1 can (21 oz/600 g) cherry pie filling – This provides the sweet and tart cherry topping for the cheesecake.

• 1 tablespoon Kirsch (cherry liqueur) or 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional) – For a more authentic Black Forest flavor, you can add a little cherry liqueur or almond extract. This step is optional.

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold – This will be whipped to make the topping light and fluffy.

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Powdered sugar sweetens the whipped cream topping.

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – This enhances the flavor of the whipped cream.

• Chocolate shavings or curls – These add a decorative and delicious touch to the topping.

• Fresh cherries – These are the perfect garnish for your Black Forest Cheesecake, adding freshness and color.

How to Make Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake

Follow these simple steps to create your Black Forest Cheesecake:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom with aluminum foil to prevent leaks. In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the cocoa powder and mix until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, on low speed to avoid overmixing. Stir in the melted chocolate, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan to create a water bath. The water should come halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This prevents cracking.

Step 4: Cool the Cheesecake
Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set.

Step 5: Prepare the Cherry Topping
Mix the cherry pie filling with Kirsch (if using) or almond extract. Spoon the cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 6: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spoon the whipped cream onto the edges of the cheesecake.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Decorate the cheesecake with chocolate shavings or curls and fresh cherries, if desired. Slice and serve cold for the best flavor.

Your Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake is now ready to be enjoyed!

How Long to Bake the Cheesecake

Baking the cheesecake to the perfect consistency is essential for achieving that smooth, creamy texture and preventing cracks. Here’s what you need to know about the baking time:

• Small Cheesecake (9-inch): Bake for 60-70 minutes at 325°F (160°C). The edges should be firm, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.

• For Best Results: Keep an eye on the cheesecake as it bakes. When the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly, it’s time to turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool down slowly in the oven. This helps to prevent cracks and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, don’t worry! The Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake can be stored properly to enjoy later.

• Refrigeration: After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheesecake will stay fresh, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

• Freezing: While you can freeze the cheesecake, the texture may change slightly when thawed. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. For best results, consume within a month. To enjoy, thaw the cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight.

Tips for Perfect Black Forest Cheesecake

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly every time:

• Avoid Overmixing: When beating the cream cheese and eggs, make sure to mix on low speed and avoid overmixing. Overbeating can incorporate too much air into the batter and cause cracks while baking.

• Water Bath Tips: Ensure the water in the roasting pan doesn’t touch the sides of the springform pan. This prevents water from seeping into the cheesecake and causing a soggy crust.

• Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate, fresh cream cheese, and heavy cream. The ingredients you use will directly affect the texture and taste of your cheesecake.

• Chill the Cheesecake: The cheesecake needs to be thoroughly chilled to set the filling properly. Make sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.

• Optional Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with the topping! You can add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or drizzle extra melted chocolate over the whipped cream for an extra touch of chocolatey goodness.

Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe

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• Author: Lena Meeli
• Total Time: 4 hours (including refrigeration)
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

These Decadent Black Forest Cheesecakes are a simple yet sophisticated dessert, perfect for any occasion. Juicy, tender cherries are paired with rich chocolatey cheesecake, offering a satisfying balance of flavors. Whether served as a special treat or a unique dessert for guests, this recipe is sure to leave everyone impressed!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For the crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)

  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted

• For the cheesecake:

  • 24 ounces (680 g) cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup (25 g) cocoa powder

  • 3 large eggs

  • 8 ounces (225 g) semisweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream

• For the topping:

  • 1 can (21 oz/600 g) cherry pie filling

  • 1 tablespoon Kirsch (cherry liqueur) or 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold

  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Chocolate shavings or curls (for garnish)

  • Fresh cherries (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom with aluminum foil for leak prevention.

• In a bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add cocoa powder and mix until well combined.

• Beat in eggs one at a time, on low speed. Stir in the melted chocolate, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.

• Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

• Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Add hot water to the roasting pan, coming halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This will create a water bath.

• Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes. The edges should be set, with a slight jiggle in the center. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

• Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

• Once chilled, top with cherry pie filling and optional Kirsch or almond extract.

• Whip cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spoon the whipped cream onto the edges of the cheesecake.

• Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls and fresh cherries.

• Slice and serve cold for the best flavor.

Notes

• For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the cheesecake before baking.

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

• If you prefer a stronger flavor, substitute the feta cheese in the cheesecake for blue cheese.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

How to Serve and Present the Cheesecake

For an elegant presentation, slice the cheesecake and serve it on individual plates. Garnish each slice with a few fresh cherries and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or curls. The vibrant red of the cherries contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate and creamy filling, making each slice look as good as it tastes.

Serve your Black Forest Cheesecake chilled for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a holiday dessert or a sweet treat for any occasion, this cheesecake is sure to impress!