Black Forest Cheesecake
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of this Black Forest Cheesecake! Combining the richness of a chocolate cheesecake with the tartness of cherries, all nestled on a chocolate cookie crust, this dessert is topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an irresistible finishing touch. It’s the perfect dessert for any special occasion or simply to satisfy your chocolate and cherry cravings!
Ingredients:
Crust:
• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Chocolate Cheesecake Filling:
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 8 oz semisweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cherry Topping:
• 1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup cherry liqueur or cherry juice (optional)
Whipped Cream Topping:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Garnish (optional):
• Chocolate shavings
• Fresh cherries
Directions:
1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Stir in the melted chocolate, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan in a water bath (wrap the bottom in foil to prevent leaks) and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool inside the oven with the door cracked open for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Make the Whipped Cream Topping: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Set aside in the refrigerator.
5. Assemble the Black Forest Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is chilled, spoon the cherry pie filling over the top, spreading it evenly. Add a layer of the whipped cream topping, then garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for an extra touch of decadence.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve this rich, chocolatey, and cherry-filled cheesecake. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures!
Prep Time: 30 mins | Bake Time: 1 hour | Chill Time: 4 hours | Servings: 12 | Calories: 500 kcal per serving
