Black Forest Cheesecake

Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, decadent chocolate, and juicy cherries with this Black Forest Cheesecake. This dessert combines all the flavors of the classic Black Forest cake—chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream—into a rich and indulgent cheesecake form. It’s a showstopper for any special occasion!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted (optional for extra chocolate flavor)

For the Cherry Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh or jarred cherries, pitted
• 1/4 cup cherry juice or syrup (if using jarred cherries)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make the Chocolate Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Gradually add the flour and beat until just combined.
5. If you like a stronger chocolate flavor, fold in the melted semi-sweet chocolate chips at this point.
6. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled chocolate crust in the springform pan.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

1. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
3. After that, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

4. Prepare the Cherry Topping:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, cherry juice (or syrup), and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the cherries to soften and release their juices.
3. If you’d like a thicker sauce, whisk in the cornstarch mixed with a bit of water, and continue cooking until it thickens.
4. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

5. Make the Whipped Cream:

1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Be careful not to overwhip, as it can turn into butter.

6. Assemble the Black Forest Cheesecake:

1. Once the cheesecake has chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
2. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top of the cheesecake.
3. Spoon the cooled cherry topping over the whipped cream, allowing the cherries and sauce to drizzle down the sides.
4. Optionally, garnish with chocolate shavings or additional chocolate curls for extra flair.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

1. Slice the cheesecake and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey, cherry-filled perfection!

Tips:

• For Extra Chocolate Flavor: If you want a deeper chocolate taste, swirl the melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling before baking.
• For a Firmer Texture: Make sure to let the cheesecake cool and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
• Alternate Toppings: You can use maraschino cherries, or even mix in some dark chocolate ganache, for added richness.

This Black Forest Cheesecake is a stunning and indulgent dessert that will impress anyone who loves the classic flavors of Black Forest cake, with a creamy twist!