Description
Rich chocolate and cherry layers merge in this Black Forest Cheesecake Delight, creating a sinful German-inspired dessert that dances between creamy indulgence and classic bakery charm. Chocolate graham crust and silky cream cheese blend seamlessly, promising sweet satisfaction for passionate dessert seekers.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Base:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed chocolate cookies
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
Topping and Garnish:
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to 325F (160C), ensuring an ideal baking environment for the cheesecake.
- Create a robust foundation by combining crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form a solid crust.
- Transform cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract into a silky, uniform mixture by beating thoroughly until achieving a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Incorporate eggs individually, gently mixing after each addition to maintain the delicate texture of the filling.
- Enhance the flavor profile by folding in sour cream and cocoa powder, stirring until the ingredients are completely integrated.
- Carefully transfer the luscious cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, watching for a set center and slightly elevated edges as indicators of perfect doneness.
- Implement a gentle cooling method by turning off the oven, slightly opening the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually and prevent unsightly surface cracks.
- Once completely cooled, generously spread cherry pie filling across the top of the cheesecake, creating a vibrant and glossy surface.
- Elevate the visual appeal by adorning with delicate whipped cream peaks and elegant chocolate shavings.
- Optimize flavor development by refrigerating the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally overnight, before serving to enhance taste and texture.
Notes
- Prevent Cracking by allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly open, which helps reduce temperature shock and minimizes surface cracks.
- Swap Chocolate Cookies with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or graham crackers to accommodate gluten-sensitive guests without compromising taste.
- Temperature Matters when beating cream cheese – ensure it’s completely room temperature for a smoother, lump-free filling that blends seamlessly.
- Make Ahead friendly dessert that can be prepared a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld and develop a richer, more complex taste profile.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 29 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg