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Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe

4.5 from 108 reviews

The Black Forest Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent dessert combining a moist chocolate cake base with a creamy cocoa-infused cheesecake layer, topped with sweet cherry pie filling, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. This decadent treat brings together the classic flavors of Black Forest cake in a smooth cheesecake form, making it perfect for special occasions or when you want a luxurious dessert experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Base

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Topping

  • 21 oz cherry pie filling
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
  • Chocolate shavings, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release.
  2. Make Cake Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the melted butter with 1 cup sugar and 2 eggs until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Pour this batter into the prepared springform pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
  3. Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then fold in the sour cream and ½ cup cocoa powder until fully incorporated and smooth.
  4. Assemble and Bake Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled chocolate cake base in the springform pan. Place the pan into a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath. Bake the cheesecake for 50 to 60 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when shaken gently.
  5. Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and water bath. Let it cool completely at room temperature before covering and refrigerating overnight to set fully.
  6. Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form and dollop or pipe it on top. Garnish with chocolate shavings for a finishing touch. Slice and enjoy your decadent Black Forest Cheesecake!

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
  • Using a water bath helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake and ensures even baking.
  • Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for best texture and flavor development.
  • You can substitute cherry pie filling with fresh cherries macerated in sugar if preferred.
  • To make the whipped cream sweeter, add 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar while whipping.

Keywords: Black Forest Cheesecake, chocolate cheesecake, cherry cheesecake, creamy dessert, baked cheesecake, chocolate cake base, cherry pie topping