Indulgent, rich, and elegantly irresistible, this Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss is a show-stopping dessert that merges the best of two beloved classics: the silky texture of a chocolate cheesecake and the bold, fruity charm of Black Forest cake. Crowned with juicy cherry topping, swirls of whipped cream, and curls of chocolate, this cheesecake is a luxurious centerpiece worthy of any celebration.

Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, a birthday surprise, or simply treating yourself to a little chocolate therapy, this dessert delivers a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Cheesecake

This is not your average cheesecake. The base is a buttery chocolate cookie crust that supports a velvety smooth chocolate cheesecake filling. Add to that a thick layer of cherry compote and finish with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings, and you have a dessert that checks all the boxes for chocolate lovers and fruit fanatics alike.

Perfect for:

• Celebrations, birthdays, or romantic dinners
• Chocolate lovers who want a fruity twist
• Fans of rich, creamy desserts with a touch of nostalgia
• Anyone looking to impress without advanced pastry skills

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup melted dark chocolate
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or canned)
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Toppings:

• Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)
• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Extra cherries for garnish

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (hand or stand)
• Spatula
• Saucepan
• Baking sheet (to place under the cheesecake in the oven)
• Knife or peeler for chocolate shavings
• Piping bag (optional, for whipped cream)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chocolate Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until well blended. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even crust.

Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely while you prepare the filling.

Tip: For added richness, sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips over the crust before adding the filling.

2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps. Add the sugar and continue mixing until creamy and combined.

Next, mix in the sour cream, followed by the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Fold in the melted dark chocolate and vanilla extract, stirring until the batter is rich, glossy, and uniform in texture.

3️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the chocolate cheesecake batter over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and gently tap the pan to release air bubbles.

Place the pan on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly when gently shaken.

Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar. This helps prevent cracks by cooling it gradually.

Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4️⃣ Prepare the Cherry Filling

While your cheesecake is chilling, make the cherry topping. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a glossy compote (about 5–7 minutes). Let it cool completely.

Pro Tip: For a grown-up version, add a splash of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the filling for an authentic Black Forest flavor.

5️⃣ Assemble and Serve

Once the cheesecake is fully chilled and firm, spoon the cherry filling over the top in an even layer.

Garnish with generous swirls of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, and a few extra cherries for a stunning presentation.

Use a hot, sharp knife to slice cleanly and serve each decadent piece with a little extra topping on the side.

Helpful Notes & Variations

• Don’t rush the chill time. A fully set cheesecake is easier to slice and has the perfect dense, creamy texture.
• Out of fresh cherries? Canned cherries or frozen cherries work perfectly—just drain excess liquid or reduce sugar accordingly.
• Crust ideas: Swap chocolate cookies for chocolate digestive biscuits or even brownie crumbs for a brownie base.
• Chocolate upgrade: Use high-quality 70% dark chocolate for a more intense cocoa flavor.
• Want more cherry? Add chopped cherries directly into the cheesecake batter for little fruit bursts inside the cake.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in the fridge for up to 5 days. For best results, store toppings separately and add just before serving.

Freezer:

This cheesecake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Ideal Food & Drink Pairings

• Espresso or cappuccino – for a rich, café-style finish
• Port wine or cherry brandy – complements the fruity chocolate profile
• Dry red wine – such as Pinot Noir for an elegant contrast
• Vanilla ice cream – for the ultimate indulgence

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes! This dessert is even better when made a day in advance, giving it plenty of time to chill and develop flavor.

How do I avoid cracks on the cheesecake?

Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven and avoid overbaking. Using a water bath is another option, but not essential for this recipe.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but the result will be sweeter and less intense. Adjust the sugar slightly to balance the flavor.

Can I skip the cherry layer?

You can—but it wouldn’t be “Black Forest” without the cherries! However, the chocolate cheesecake stands deliciously on its own if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

This Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss is the ultimate dessert fusion—rich, chocolatey, creamy, and bursting with cherry flavor. It’s everything you love about traditional Black Forest cake, reimagined into a luscious cheesecake form. A true showpiece, this dessert is sure to impress guests, loved ones, and your own tastebuds alike.

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