Print

Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A rich and creamy Black Forest cheesecake combining chocolate and cherries for a decadent dessert perfect for any special occasion. This vegetarian-friendly cheesecake features a chocolate cookie crust, smooth chocolate-infused cream cheese filling, and optional cherry pie topping, finished with whipped cream and garnishes.

  • Author: Zara
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 slices
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 ounces (680 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) cocoa powder
  • 3 large eggs
  • 8 ounces (225 g) semisweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Kirsch or 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Cherry Topping (Optional)

  • 1 can (21 oz/600 g) cherry pie filling

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish (Optional)

  • Chocolate shavings or curls
  • Fresh cherries

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the crust: Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform pan to form the crust layer.
  3. Bake the crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes in the preheated oven to set it, then remove and allow it to cool completely.
  4. Mix the cream cheese filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the cocoa powder and mix thoroughly until combined.
  5. Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the melted and slightly cooled semisweet chocolate, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the batter is smooth. If desired, add Kirsch or almond extract for an extra hint of flavor.
  6. Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the prepared cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface. If using cherry pie filling, gently spoon it over the top or serve it on the side after baking.
  7. Prepare the water bath: Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath, which helps prevent cracking by ensuring even baking.
  8. Bake the cheesecake: Bake in the oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until the edges appear set but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
  9. Cool the cheesecake: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool slowly for 1 hour in the oven. This gradual cooling helps avoid cracks on the surface.
  10. Chill the cheesecake: Remove the springform pan from the water bath, then let the cheesecake cool to room temperature on a wire rack before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
  11. Prepare whipped cream topping: Just before serving, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  12. Serve and garnish: Release the cheesecake from the springform pan, top it with the whipped cream, chocolate shavings or curls, fresh cherries, and optional cherry pie filling if not baked in. Slice into 12 pieces and serve chilled.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
  • Be careful not to overmix after adding the eggs to maintain a light texture.
  • Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best flavor development and texture.
  • Garnish with fresh cherries or chocolate shavings for an attractive presentation.

Find it online: https://zaracooking.com/decadent-black-forest-cheesecake-recipe/