Rich, creamy chocolate cheesecake layered with a luscious cherry topping, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings — this Black Forest Cheesecake is an elegant dessert that steals the show at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Black Forest flavor in a rich cheesecake form

• Smooth, velvety chocolate cheesecake paired with tart cherry sauce

• No complicated techniques — simple steps for stunning results

• Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or special weekends

Ingredients

Crust

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup sour cream

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup melted dark chocolate

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

• 2 cups pitted cherries

• ½ cup sugar

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• ½ cup water

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Garnish

• Whipped cream

• Chocolate shavings

• Extra cherries

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool.

Step 2: Make the filling

Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well. Stir in sour cream. Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add chocolate and vanilla

Stir melted dark chocolate and vanilla extract into the filling mixture until smooth and uniform.

Step 4: Bake the cheesecake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the cheesecake is almost set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let cool inside for 1 hour. Then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Prepare cherry topping

In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer. Mix cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry, then stir into the cherry mixture. Cook until thickened. Remove from heat and cool completely.

Step 6: Assemble and garnish

Spread the cooled cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and extra cherries as desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh or frozen cherries for the topping depending on season.

• For an extra chocolate kick, drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream before serving.

• Make individual cheesecakes in ramekins for smaller portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! Cheesecake tastes even better after resting overnight, and the cherry topping can also be prepared a day ahead.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A deep-dish pie pan can work, but removing the cheesecake might be more difficult.

Can I substitute the sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Black Forest Cheesecake combines the best of two classic desserts — rich chocolate and sweet cherries — into a stunning centerpiece dessert. Its creamy texture, decadent chocolate, and fresh cherry topping make it a timeless favorite that’s sure to impress every time.