Black Forest Cheesecake is a decadent masterpiece that combines the richness of chocolate cheesecake with the sweet-tart flavor of cherries, topped off with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. It’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions, holidays, or simply indulging your sweet tooth.
Easy Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe
This Black Forest Cheesecake features a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, a luscious chocolate-cherry cheesecake filling, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. With every bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of chocolate and cherries that will leave you craving more.
Why Our Black Forest Cheesecake Is the Best
- Rich and Decadent: The creamy chocolate cheesecake is perfectly balanced with bursts of cherry flavor.
- Beautiful Presentation: Topped with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh cherries, it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.
- Perfect Texture: A velvety filling with just the right amount of tang from sour cream and sweetness from cherries.
Ingredients Notes Black Forest Cheesecake
Each ingredient in this Black Forest Cheesecake is carefully chosen to create its signature rich flavor and luxurious texture.
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs – Forms a sturdy, chocolaty base for the cheesecake.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crumbs together.
For the Filling:
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates the creamy base for the cheesecake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling.
- 3 large eggs – Adds structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor.
- ¼ cup cocoa powder – Infuses the cheesecake with chocolate flavor.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps stabilize the filling.
- ½ cup sour cream – Adds tang and a silky texture.
- ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries – Adds sweet, fruity bursts.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips – Provides chocolaty pockets throughout the filling.
For the Topping:
- ½ cup heavy cream – Whipped for a light, fluffy topping.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the topping.
- 1 cup whipped cream – For spreading on the cheesecake.
- ½ cup chocolate shavings – For garnish.
- Fresh cherries – Add a decorative and flavorful touch.
Kitchen Tools Needed for Black Forest Cheesecake
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Knife for chopping cherries
How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the Crust
- In a bowl, mix 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs and ¼ cup melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat 24 ounces softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar and mix until creamy.
- Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup cocoa powder, and ¼ cup all-purpose flour until fully incorporated.
- Fold in ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup chopped maraschino cherries, and ½ cup mini chocolate chips.
4. Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
5. Cool and Chill
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set completely.
6. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping
- In a bowl, whip ½ cup heavy cream, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
7. Garnish
- Sprinkle the cheesecake with ½ cup chocolate shavings and decorate with fresh cherries.
How to Store Black Forest Cheesecake
Refrigeration
Store your Black Forest Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate shavings and chips for a richer flavor.
- Cherry Compote Topping: Replace fresh cherries with a homemade cherry compote for an extra indulgent topping.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.
- Alcohol-Infused Cheesecake: Add 1–2 tablespoons of cherry liqueur to the filling for a boozy twist.
What to Serve With Black Forest Cheesecake
Pair this cheesecake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of red wine for a luxurious dessert experience. For a festive presentation, serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of cherry sauce.
Top Tips for Perfect Black Forest Cheesecake
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Use softened cream cheese and room-temperature eggs for a smooth filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing cracks in the cheesecake.
- Cool Gradually: Cooling in the oven prevents the cheesecake from cracking.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow ample chilling time for the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Decorate Just Before Serving: Add whipped cream and fresh cherries close to serving time for the best presentation.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Mary Berry: Always grease the sides of the springform pan to ensure the cheesecake releases smoothly.
- Gordon Ramsay: Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate and cherry flavors.
- Nigella Lawson: Use the back of a spoon to create smooth layers and edges for a polished look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use fresh cherries in the filling instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, but pit and chop them finely, and ensure they are not overly juicy to avoid altering the texture.
2. What’s the best way to prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven and avoid overmixing the batter.
3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after chilling overnight.
4. Can I use a different crust?
Yes, a graham cracker crust or an Oreo crust would work well too.
5. How do I cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between slices.
Enjoy this Black Forest Cheesecake as a luxurious and indulgent dessert that will impress everyone at your table!
Black Forest Cheesecake
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- – 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- – 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- For the Cheesecake:
- – 24 oz cream cheese softened
- – 1 cup granulated sugar
- – 3 large eggs
- – 1 tsp vanilla extract
- – 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- – 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- – 1/2 cup sour cream
- – 1/2 cup chopped maraschino cherries
- – 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Topping:
- – 1/2 cup heavy cream
- – 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- – 1 tsp vanilla extract
- – 1 cup whipped cream
- – 1/2 cup chocolate shavings
- – Fresh cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter, press into a 9-inch springform pan, and bake for 10 minutes. Cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla, cocoa powder, and flour. Fold in sour cream, cherries, and chocolate chips.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour filling over crust. Bake for 50–60 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Cool in the oven for 1 hour, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
- Make Whipped Topping: Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over chilled cheesecake.
- Decorate and Serve: Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries. Slice and serve!
Notes
- Use good-quality chocolate for the shavings.
- Chill overnight for the best texture.
- Substitute fresh cherries for maraschino if desired.
