Indulge in the ultimate dessert that brings together the classic flavors of chocolate, cherries, and creamy cheesecake in perfect harmony. This Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony is as stunning as it is delicious, with a rich chocolate base, a velvety cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping crowned with a decadent chocolate drizzle.
Why This Recipe Works
Layered Perfection: A chocolate cookie crust provides a sturdy and flavorful foundation for the creamy cheesecake and cherry topping.
Balanced Sweetness: The tartness of the cherries complements the richness of the chocolate and cream cheese, creating a balanced flavor profile.
Impressive Presentation: Fresh cherries and chocolate drizzle add an elegant finish, making this dessert perfect for special occasions.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
1 cup cherry pie filling
1/2 cup fresh cherries (optional, for garnish)
For the Chocolate Drizzle:
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp heavy cream
How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in the cocoa powder, sour cream, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside to cool for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking.
Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight to allow it to set completely.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake.
Melt the chocolate chips with the heavy cream in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the chocolate sauce over the cherries.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh cherries and additional chocolate shavings if desired.
Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for Recipe Success
Prevent Cracking: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath for a smoother top. Wrap the pan in foil to avoid leaks and place it in a roasting pan with hot water while baking.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, as it tastes even better after resting overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pair with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of red wine for a truly indulgent experience.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour (plus cooling)
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony isn’t just a dessert; it’s a masterpiece! Its rich, decadent flavors and stunning presentation make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or any celebration where you want to wow your guests. 🎉