Black Forest Cheesecake 🍒🍫🍰
A luscious combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet cherries, and indulgent chocolate that’s perfect for any celebration or indulgent treat!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 cup heavy cream
For the Cherry Topping:
1 can (15 oz) cherry pie filling
1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved (optional)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (if using fresh cherries)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (if using fresh cherries)
For the Chocolate Ganache (Optional):
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy cream
Directions 👩🍳
1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
Bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
Using a mixer, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition.
Gently stir in sour cream and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center has a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the oven door ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
4. Prepare the Cherry Topping:
Using Fresh Cherries: Cook pitted cherries with sugar and lemon juice over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Let cool.
Using Canned Cherries: Use as-is, or add fresh cherries for added texture and flavor.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache (Optional):
Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
Add chocolate chips and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Spread the cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake.
Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top or along the edges for a decadent finish.
Slice, serve chilled, and savor the rich, fruity, and chocolatey flavors!
This Black Forest Cheesecake is sure to steal the show at any gathering!