Description
This Delicious Black Forest Cheesecake is a perfect dessert combining a rich chocolate cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping with dark chocolate shavings. Inspired by the classic German Black Forest cake, it offers a decadent yet smooth texture, ideal for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Cheesecake
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Topping
- 1 cup cherry pie filling or fresh pitted cherries
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate shavings
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes and then set aside to cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and all-purpose flour, blending gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 10 minutes to gradually adjust to temperature changes, reducing cracking. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate: Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal firmness and flavor development.
- Add the topping and serve: Before serving, spread cherry pie filling or scatter fresh cherries evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings for a beautiful finish. Optionally, add dollops of whipped cream. Slice carefully and serve chilled for the perfect dessert experience.
Notes
- For a richer taste, use fresh cherries and homemade chocolate shavings instead of store-bought toppings.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to prevent lumps and create a smooth batter.
- Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
