I’ve been dreaming about this Black Forest Cheesecake for days now, and can’t wait to share it with you. Imagine a chocolatey cookie crust holding the creamiest chocolate cheesecake, all topped with juicy cherries and clouds of whipped cream.
It’s like having two desserts in one—traditional cheesecake meets classic Black Forest cake. Perfect for special occasions or, let’s be honest, those nights when only something decadently chocolatey will do.
And don’t worry about complexity; this recipe breaks down into simple steps that anyone can master.
Why You’ll Love this Black Forest Cheesecake
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress, this Black Forest Cheesecake might just become your new signature recipe. It combines the rich creaminess of classic cheesecake with the decadent flavors of Black Forest cake—chocolate, cherries, and cream in perfect harmony.
I’m obsessed with how the chocolate cookie crust provides a satisfying crunch against the velvety chocolate-infused filling.
And those cherries on top? They add the perfect sweet-tart balance. Can anything beat that combination?
The best part is how simple it’s to make despite looking totally fancy.
What Ingredients are in Black Forest Cheesecake?
To create this deliciously indulgent Black Forest Cheesecake, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to make something truly spectacular.
- 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
For those looking to add an authentic touch to this decadent dessert, consider adding a splash of kirsch liqueur to the cherry topping—it’s optional but adds that traditional Black Forest flavor that takes this cheesecake to the next level.
How to Make this Black Forest Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Mix 1 cup of chocolate cookie crumbs with 3 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined.
Then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan to create a solid foundation for your cheesecake.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
The mixture should look smooth and creamy with no lumps in sight.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Filling Ingredients
Add 3 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 4 ounces of melted semi-sweet chocolate until completely incorporated.
The batter should have a rich chocolate color and silky texture.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour your chocolate cream cheese mixture over the prepared crust and bake at 325°F for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
The edges should be firm while the middle maintains a gentle wobble.
Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling works even better.
Patience is key here—proper cooling prevents cracks and helps develop the flavors.
Step 6: Add the Cherry Topping
Just before serving, spread the can of cherry pie filling evenly over the top of your chilled cheesecake.
For an authentic Black Forest touch, you might want to stir a splash of kirsch liqueur into the cherry topping.
For perfect results every time, consider using a premium brownie set that includes measuring tools for precise ingredient portions.
Step 7: Finish with Whipped Cream
Dollop or pipe 1/2 cup of whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake or across the top in decorative swirls.
This adds a beautiful finishing touch and balances the richness of the chocolate and tartness of the cherries.
What to Serve with Black Forest Cheesecake
This decadent cheesecake deserves perfect companions to round out your dessert experience. A small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream creates a lovely temperature contrast against the rich chocolate base.
For drinks, nothing complements those cherry flavors quite like a cup of dark roast coffee or an espresso—the slight bitterness balances the sweetness beautifully.
If you’re feeling fancy, serve small glasses of kirsch or cherry brandy alongside for sipping. Want something non-alcoholic? A sparkling cherry soda works wonderfully too.
For larger gatherings, fresh berries on the side add a bright, acidic counterpoint that cuts through the creamy richness. This showstopper works best as an after-dinner treat, though I won’t tell anyone if you sneak a slice with your morning coffee!
Black Forest Cheesecake Substitutions and Variations
- Chocolate Options: Dark chocolate (70% cacao) adds sophistication, while white chocolate creates a striking “Blonde Forest” variation.
- Fancy Garnishes: Chocolate curls, edible gold flakes, or a dusting of cocoa powder add that restaurant-quality finish.
Leftovers and Storage for this Black Forest Cheesecake
This cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
For best results, store the cheesecake base separately from the cherry topping and whipped cream—this prevents the crust from getting soggy.
Want to freeze it? Wrap individual slices (or the whole cake minus toppings) tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
To refresh a slice, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.
The flavors actually develop overnight, making this cheesecake even more delicious the next day—if it lasts that long in your house!
Final Thoughts
This Black Forest Cheesecake brings together two beloved desserts in perfect harmony—creamy chocolate cheesecake with the classic cherry-chocolate combination that’s made Black Forest cake a favorite for generations.
The contrast between the rich, velvety chocolate layer and the bright, slightly tart cherry topping creates a dessert that feels both indulgent and invigorating.
It’s an ideal showstopper for holiday gatherings or special celebrations when you want something a bit more sophisticated than traditional cake.
With make-ahead convenience and that optional splash of kirsch for the adults, this cheesecake offers a little slice of German-inspired comfort that transforms any ordinary meal into an occasion worth remembering.
