Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake combines rich chocolate and cherry flavors for a delicious dessert that captivates your senses. This indulgent cheesecake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a celebration, holiday, or just a sweet treat after dinner. The layers of creamy chocolate cheesecake paired with cherry topping create a decadent experience that’s hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake
This dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. Here are several reasons to adore it:
- Rich chocolate and cherry combination that satisfies cravings.
- Perfectly creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy preparation with basic ingredients found in most kitchens.
- Flexible variations for different dietary needs, including Gluten-free Black Forest Cheesecake options.
- Great for festive occasions, making it a standout dessert choice.
- Incredible flavor that keeps guests coming back for more.
This dessert is not only a treat for your taste buds, but it also fits wonderfully into the Dessert category, making it an ideal option for any sweet lover.
Ingredients for Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake
Gather these items:
- For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo or chocolate graham crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- For the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (15 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water
- For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries (optional)
How to Make Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of chocolate cookie crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Step 3: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 3 large eggs (one at a time), 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Step 6: Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm, and the center will continue to set as it cools.
- Step 8: Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about 1 hour.
- Step 9: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Step 10: Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
- Step 11: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry pie filling with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (if you prefer a thicker topping).
- Step 12: Stir gently until heated through and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Step 13: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
- Step 14: Top with the cherry mixture, spreading it evenly over the cheesecake.
- Step 15: Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh cherries if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake
Keep these in mind:
- Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best texture.
- Use fresh cherries for garnish if available.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- For an extra touch, consider drizzling chocolate sauce over the top.
Best Ways to Serve Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake
Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Offer a side of chocolate sauce for those who crave extra sweetness.
How to Store and Reheat Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake
Once your cheesecake has set, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Remember to cover it with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness. This dessert is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well over time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake
What’s the secret to perfect Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake?
The secret lies in using high-quality chocolate and allowing it to chill overnight. This ensures a rich, creamy texture and enhances the flavors, making it taste like a gourmet dessert.
Can I make Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead is recommended. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more indulgent experience.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake?
To avoid cracks, cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven after baking. Also, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, which helps achieve a smooth batter.
Variations of Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake You Can Try
Experiment with these fun variations:
- No-bake Black Forest Cheesecake ideas: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling for a lighter option.
- Gluten-free Black Forest Cheesecake options: Substitute cookie crumbs with gluten-free versions.
- Rich Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: Add dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our latest recipes or try making gingerbread cookies for a festive treat. If you’re looking for something savory, consider our slow cooker Korean beef recipe.
Print
Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake: 8 Irresistible Layers
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Dreamy Black Forest Cheesecake combines rich chocolate and cherry flavors for a delicious dessert.
Ingredients
- For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo or chocolate graham crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- For the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 can (15 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water
- For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of chocolate cookie crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 3 large eggs (one at a time), 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm, and the center will continue to set as it cools.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to set completely.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherry pie filling with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (if you prefer a thicker topping).
- Stir gently until heated through and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
- Top with the cherry mixture, spreading it evenly over the cheesecake.
- Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and fresh cherries if desired.
Notes
- Chill the cheesecake overnight for the best texture.
- Use fresh cherries for garnish if available.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Black Forest Cheesecake, Chocolate Cheesecake, Dessert, Cherry Topping









