Name: Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-487745H1M3S
Total time: PT-487745H1M3S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping); 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 jar (about 16 oz) of Morello cherries or cherry pie filling; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate shavings; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

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Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss

I love making this Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss because it combines the richness of cheesecake with the decadent flavors of a Black Forest cake. The creamy cheesecake filling sits on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with layers of sweetened cherries, chocolate, and whipped cream. It’s indulgent, luxurious, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

What I love most about this dessert is how it effortlessly blends two classic favorites—cheesecake and Black Forest cake—into one show-stopping treat. The creamy, velvety cheesecake contrasts beautifully with the tart, juicy cherries, while the chocolate adds a perfect touch of sweetness. The whipped cream topping makes it feel extra indulgent, and it’s always a hit at dinner parties, holidays, or any occasion!

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream (for whipping)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the topping:
- 1 jar (about 16 oz) of Morello cherries or cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a springform pan (9-inch works well). Use the back of a spoon to pack it down tightly.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the crust is golden. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure not to overmix.
- In a separate bowl, whip the 1 cup of heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined, ensuring it stays light and airy.
Assemble and bake the cheesecake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Tap the pan gently to release any air bubbles.
- Bake at 325°F for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. If the top of the cheesecake starts to brown too much, cover it loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Afterward, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully chilled and set.
Prepare the topping:
- In a small saucepan, heat the cherry pie filling (or drained cherries) over low heat just until warmed through. You can also add a tablespoon of sugar or a splash of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) for extra flavor.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the whipped cream over the top, leaving a small border around the edges.
Assemble the Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss:
- Spoon the cooled cherry topping over the whipped cream layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the top with semi-sweet chocolate shavings or chocolate chips for an added chocolatey touch.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and extra freshness.
Serve:
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-16 servings, depending on the size of the slices. Prep time is around 25 minutes, bake time is 50-60 minutes, and cooling time is at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).

Variations

I like to change it up by:

Swapping out the chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Using fresh cherries when they’re in season, or you could even mix in a bit of cherry liqueur for a boozy twist.
Adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped cream for a touch of warmth.
Swirling the cherry topping into the cheesecake filling before baking for a more integrated cherry flavor.

Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss

Storage / Reheating

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This cheesecake is best served cold, so no reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I use a different crust?
Yes, you can use an Oreo cookie crust, a chocolate graham cracker crust, or even a nut-based crust if you prefer a different flavor.
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free cookie for the crust.
What if I don’t like sour cream?
You can substitute the sour cream with more cream cheese for a smoother, creamier texture.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this cheesecake is even better the next day after it has chilled and set overnight.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them before using. You may need to simmer them in a bit of sugar to bring out their sweetness if they’re too tart.

Conclusion

Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, creamy cheesecake with the irresistible combination of cherries and chocolate. It’s indulgent, visually stunning, and perfect for special occasions. The contrast of textures and flavors will make it your go-to dessert for every celebration!