Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe

Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that layers rich chocolate cheesecake over a chocolate cookie crust, topped with sweet-tart cherries and fluffy whipped cream. Inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, this cheesecake version is indulgent, elegant, and bursting with deep chocolate and cherry flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this Recipe

This cheesecake delivers the best of both worlds: silky chocolate creaminess and bright cherry contrast. It’s the perfect dessert for celebrations, holidays, or when you want to truly impress. Each bite is smooth, chocolaty, fruity, and completely satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:
chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, without filling)unsalted buttergranulated sugar

For the cheesecake filling:
cream cheese (room temperature)granulated sugarsour creameggssemisweet or dark chocolate (melted)unsweetened cocoa powdervanilla extract

For the cherry topping:
canned cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
kirsch (optional, for authentic flavor)

For the whipped cream:
heavy whipping creampowdered sugarvanilla extract

chocolate shavings or curls (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the bottom in foil to prevent leaks.

Mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add sour cream and vanilla, mixing until combined.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low until just incorporated.

Stir in melted chocolate and cocoa powder until fully blended.

Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.

Place pan in a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water (water bath). Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

Top cooled cheesecake with cherry pie filling or homemade compote. Add a splash of kirsch if desired.

Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spoon around the edge.

Garnish with chocolate shavings or curls if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12–14 slices.Preparation time: 25 minutesBaking time: 60 minutesCooling and chilling time: 5–6 hoursTotal time: 6.5–7 hours

Variations

Use brownie batter instead of cookie crust for extra decadence.
Substitute raspberry or blackberry compote for a twist.
Add chopped cherries into the cheesecake batter for bursts of fruit.
Make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins for individual servings.

storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered lightly to avoid condensation.Do not freeze with the cherry topping—freeze the plain cheesecake and top after thawing.Serve chilled; no reheating required.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes, cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to make a homemade topping.

Do I need a water bath?
It helps prevent cracks and ensures even baking, especially for creamy cheesecakes.

What kind of chocolate is best?
Use high-quality semisweet or dark chocolate for best flavor and texture.

Can I skip the kirsch?
Yes, it’s optional. Almond extract is a nice substitute for a similar depth.

How do I know when it’s done?
The center should jiggle slightly, but the edges should be set.

What if my cheesecake cracks?
No worries—just cover with cherries and whipped cream!

Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, cheesecake is best when made the day before.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Yes, but homemade whipped cream adds better flavor and texture.

Can I use milk chocolate?
You can, but it will be milder and sweeter—dark chocolate adds more depth.

Conclusion

Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake is an eye-catching, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings together rich chocolate and sweet cherries in the most indulgent way. With its creamy filling, crunchy crust, and bright topping, this cheesecake is sure to become a showstopper in your recipe collection.

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