Black Forest Cheesecake (Rich, Creamy & Elegantly Chocolatey)

Welcome back to my kitchen — Chef James here 👨‍🍳
Few desserts feel as dramatic and timeless as a Black Forest Cheesecake. Inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, this version layers deep chocolate flavor with creamy cheesecake filling and luscious cherries, all in one elegant slice. It’s rich without being overwhelming, indulgent yet balanced — the kind of dessert that makes any occasion feel special.

I developed this recipe while experimenting with chocolate-forward desserts that still feel refined. Much like my Chocolate Orange Layer Cake or the bold intensity of Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake, this cheesecake relies on contrast: bittersweet chocolate, tangy cream cheese, and sweet-tart cherries working together in harmony.

In the US, cheesecakes are a go-to celebration dessert, and this Black Forest Cheesecake brings a bakery-style wow factor that fits perfectly on holiday tables, dinner parties, or anytime you want a dessert that truly impresses.

Why You’ll Love This Black Forest Cheesecake

• Deep chocolate flavor with classic Black Forest vibes
• Ultra-creamy cheesecake texture
• Sweet-tart cherry topping balances richness
• Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings
• Elegant enough for holidays, simple enough for home bakers

🍒 Would you serve this for a holiday dinner or a special weekend celebration?

Ingredients Needed

For the chocolate crust:

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter

For the cheesecake filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cherry topping:

• 2 cups cherry pie filling or homemade cherry compote

👉 Tip: High-quality cocoa powder makes a noticeable difference, just like in Mexican Chocolate Milk Cake.

How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake

1. Prepare the crust

Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter.
Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.
Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 10 minutes. Let cool.

2. Make the filling

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Mix in cocoa powder and vanilla.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Fold in sour cream until just combined.

3. Bake

Pour filling over crust.
Bake at 325°F for 55–65 minutes, until edges are set and center slightly jiggles.

4. Cool slowly

Turn oven off, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Chill at least 4 hours or overnight.

5. Top with cherries

Spread cherry topping just before serving.

👉 Chef James Tip: Slow cooling prevents cracks — the same patience pays off in structured desserts like Chocolate Biscoff Tart.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Extra chocolate: Add chocolate ganache between crust and filling
• Coffee note: Pair slices with cookies like Caramel Macchiato Cookies
• Holiday dessert board: Serve alongside Gooey Golden S’mores Rolls
• No-bake twist: Pair with chilled desserts like Peanut Butter Lasagna for variety

This cheesecake also balances lighter desserts such as Blueberry Cream Cheese Dessert beautifully.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze slices up to 1 month (thaw overnight)
• Make-ahead: Ideal — flavor improves after chilling

For safe handling of dairy-based desserts, always follow USDA guidance: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/

FAQs – Black Forest Cheesecake

Does this taste like traditional Black Forest cake?
Yes, but creamier and richer thanks to the cheesecake base.

Can I use fresh cherries?
Absolutely — cook them down with sugar first.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it’s best made a day in advance.

Do I need a water bath?
Optional, but slow cooling works well.

Is this very sweet?
Balanced — chocolate and cherries keep it from being cloying.

Best occasions to serve it?
Holidays, birthdays, or dinner parties — similar to indulgent treats like Crème Brûlée French Toast.

What to Serve With Black Forest Cheesecake

• Coffee or espresso
• Fresh berries
• Dessert tables with Brown Butter Coffee Toffee Cookies
• Chocolate desserts like Dark Chocolate Espresso Cake

Final Thoughts from Chef James

This Black Forest Cheesecake is a celebration dessert through and through. Rich, creamy, and layered with classic flavors, it’s the kind of recipe that feels both nostalgic and elevated.

👉 Bake it once, chill it well, and enjoy every decadent bite. 🍒🍫

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