Description

A rich and indulgent chocolate cheesecake layered with sweet cherry topping, whipped cream, and dark chocolate shavings, inspired by the classic German Black Forest cake.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup heavy cream

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup melted dark chocolate (cooled slightly)

1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling (or cooked fresh cherries)

1 cup whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)

Chocolate shavings, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
Add sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently on low speed.
Stir in the melted dark chocolate until fully incorporated.
Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, until the center is set with a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, top with cherry pie filling, whipped cream swirls, and chocolate shavings.

Notes

Use milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter version.

Enhance cherry flavor with homemade cherry compote.

Add a splash of kirsch to the filling for authenticity.

Use gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free crust.

Top with whipped cream just before serving to maintain texture.

Do not reheat; best served chilled or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: German-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 435
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 115mg