Introduction
If you’re looking for a dessert that truly impresses, look no further than this rich and decadent Black Forest Cheesecake. Combining the lusciousness of traditional cheesecake with the delightful taste of chocolate and cherries, this dessert is a sweet symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. With a creamy filling perched atop a chocolate cookie crust and crowned with a vibrant cherry topping, every bite is a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients
- Crust:
- 1 ¾ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Chocolate shavings, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan with a bit of butter or non-stick spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well blended.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form a sturdy crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until it’s all fully incorporated and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition – be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the sour cream until everything is smooth and creamy, then pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
- Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. The center should be set but still have a slight wobble when you gently shake it.
- Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about 1 hour, allowing it to set without sudden temperature changes.
- After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for optimal chilling.
- To prepare the cherry topping, mix the cherry pie filling with vanilla extract in a bowl. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in a tiny bit of water and stir it into the cherry mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until you reach stiff peaks.
- When you’re ready to serve, top the chilled cheesecake with the cherry filling and a generous layer of whipped cream. For a touch of elegance, garnish with chocolate shavings.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a few tablespoons of cherry liqueur to the cherry topping for a lovely adult twist. To keep your cheesecake from cracking during baking, avoid opening the oven door too often and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
Cooking Techniques
Baking a cheesecake requires a gentle touch. Avoid overmixing the filling to maintain that perfect creaminess. Also, letting the cheesecake cool gradually inside the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface. Refrigerating overnight ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and the texture becomes delightfully firm.
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! Just cook fresh pitted cherries with a bit of sugar and water until they soften and thicken to your desired consistency.
How do I store leftover cheesecake?
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months for longer storage.
Conclusion
This Black Forest Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert to wow your friends and family with its rich flavors and stunning presentation. Perfect for celebrations or a simple indulgent treat, every slice will remind you why cheesecake is a beloved classic. Enjoy each creamy bite paired with the sweet-tart cherries and fluffy whipped cream — pure bliss!