Black Forest Cheesecake: A Delightful Baking Experience

What is Black Forest Cheesecake?

Black Forest Cheesecake is a delightful twist on the timeless Black Forest Cake. It combines a rich chocolate layer with whipped cream and cherries, replicating the traditional flavors. This cheesecake features a delectable chocolate base topped with cherry pie filling and exquisite whipped cream, garnished with chocolate shavings for that added touch. While traditional Black Forest Cake often includes cherry liqueur, this cheesecake can easily accommodate it if desired. It’s the ideal dessert to impress someone special!

How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake

Creating your own Black Forest Cheesecake is impressively simple but yields stunning results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For a rich chocolate cheesecake base, gather the following:

• 20 Oreo cookies, crushed into fine crumbs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 32 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Making the Cheesecake

Start by preparing your springform pan in a water bath, wrapping it tightly in foil to prevent leaks. A helpful tip is to place the springform pan inside a larger pan.

Mix Oreo crumbs with melted butter, press into the prepared pan, and bake for 8 minutes before letting it cool.

For the filling, heat the heavy cream and pour it over chocolate chips, allowing it to sit before whisking to create chocolate ganache. Then, mix the cream cheese and sugar in a stand mixer, gradually adding the eggs, vanilla, and finally the chocolate ganache and flour for a smooth batter.

Pour the filling into the crust, place it in the water bath, and bake it for 60-70 minutes. Let it rest in the oven for an hour after turning it off, and then refrigerate for at least 8 hours before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You may prep the components up to a month in advance and freeze the cheesecake for the best results. Assemble the toppings just before serving for optimal freshness.

Recipe FAQs

Can I add kirsch to this Black Forest Cheesecake?

Yes! You can add 2-3 tablespoons of kirsch to either the cheesecake filling or the cherry pie filling.

Can I freeze leftover slices of this cheesecake?

Absolutely! Wrap leftover slices in foil and store them in a zip-top bag for up to one month. For topped slices, freeze them first on a baking sheet before wrapping.

Can I make this cheesecake without a mixer?

Indeed! A food processor works well to mix the filling.

Help! My water baths always leak. What can I do?

Use a 9-inch springform in a 10-inch cake pan. Pour boiling water around, avoiding any leak issues.