Description

This rich chocolate cheesecake features a cookie crust, cherry topping, and fluffy whipped cream for a showstopping dessert with classic Black Forest flavor.

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreos, filling removed)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the chocolate cheesecake filling:

24 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

4 large eggs

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and cooled

For the topping:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Chocolate shavings or curls (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

Make the crust: Mix cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool.

Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, and cocoa powder.

Add eggs one at a time on low speed, scraping the bowl between each. Stir in melted chocolate until well blended.

Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.

Bake for 55–65 minutes until the center is set with a slight jiggle.

Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

Before serving: Spread cherry pie filling over chilled cheesecake.

Whip cream and powdered sugar to stiff peaks. Pipe or dollop over the top. Garnish with chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark or bittersweet for deeper flavor.

Use fresh or frozen cherries cooked with sugar and cornstarch for a homemade topping.

Add chopped chocolate or nuts under the cherry layer for texture.

Make mini cheesecakes in cupcake tins for individual servings.

Add cherry liqueur to the whipped cream or topping for a holiday twist.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: European / American