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Black Forest-Style Cheesecake Recipe

Black Forest-Style Cheesecake Recipe

4.9 from 28 reviews

This Black Forest-Style Cheesecake is a decadent dessert combining a rich chocolate cookie crust, creamy chocolate-infused cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping. Finished with whipped cream and chocolate curls, it delivers the classic flavors of Black Forest cake in a creamy, indulgent cheesecake form perfect for special occasions or dessert lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups (150g) chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 (8-ounce/225g) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 4 ounces (115g) semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cherry Topping:

  • 2 cups (300g) pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
  • ⅓ cup (70g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For Decoration:

  • 1 cup (240ml) whipped cream
  • Dark chocolate curls or shavings (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined. Mix in sour cream, vanilla extract, and melted chocolate until evenly blended.
  3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
  4. Prepare the Cherry Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until cherries release their juices, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes more. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
  5. Assemble the Cheesecake: Spread the cooled cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake surface.
  6. Decorate: Pipe or spoon whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake and garnish with dark chocolate curls or shavings for an authentic Black Forest look.
  7. Serve: Slice the cheesecake with a warm knife to achieve clean edges and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smooth cheesecake batter.
  • If fresh cherries are out of season, frozen cherries work well; just thaw before using.
  • Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for optimal set and flavor development.
  • Using a warm knife to slice helps prevent cracking and ensures clean slices.
  • For a richer flavor, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate.
  • To avoid cracks, do not overbake the cheesecake; the center should remain slightly wobbly when done.

Nutrition

Keywords: Black Forest Cheesecake, Chocolate Cheesecake, Cherry Dessert, Decadent Desserts, Homemade Cheesecake, Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake