Description

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the indulgence of chocolate, the richness of cheesecake, and the brightness of cherries, this Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony is it. A luscious twist on the classic Black Forest cake, this recipe delivers creamy, chocolate-infused cheesecake topped with glossy cherries and dark chocolate shavings—a true celebration dessert!

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup sour cream
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

1 can (21 oz / 595 g) cherry pie filling
½ cup dark chocolate, grated
Fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until fully combined.
Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add sugar and cocoa powder; beat until fully incorporated.
Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract.

3. Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Do not overmix once the eggs are fully incorporated.

4. Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

5. Top with Cherries

Once completely cooled, spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake.

6. Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Before serving, garnish with grated dark chocolate and fresh cherries, if desired.

Notes

For a bolder chocolate flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa or add ¼ tsp espresso powder to the filling.
Swap the cherry pie filling for homemade cherry compote if you prefer a less sweet topping.
Use chocolate shavings, curls, or a dusting of cocoa for an elegant finish.