Description
The Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony is a decadent dessert that combines the smooth richness of cheesecake with the luscious flavors of a Black Forest cake. With a chocolatey crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and topped with sweet cherries and whipped cream, this dessert is a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides the base for the crust
- Cocoa Powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor
- Sugar: Sweetens the crust
- Butter: Melted, to bind the crust ingredients together
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream Cheese: Softened, to create a smooth, creamy filling
- Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the filling
- Eggs: Bind the filling and help it set
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and smoothness
- Vanilla Extract: For flavor depth
- Heavy Cream: Makes the filling richer and creamier
For the Cherry Topping:
- Canned Cherries in Syrup: For a sweet, juicy topping (or use fresh cherries when in season)
- Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the cherries
- Cornstarch: To thicken the cherry syrup, creating a pie-like filling
For the Whipped Cream:
- Heavy Cream: For a rich, airy whipped cream
- Powdered Sugar: To sweeten the whipped cream
- Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well-coated with butter and the mixture holds together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and mix until combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, and mix until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled chocolate crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when shaken. The edges should be golden brown.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Afterward, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Cherry Topping:
- In a small saucepan, combine the canned cherries (with syrup), sugar, and cornstarch. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the syrup thickens and the cherries are heated through.
- Remove from heat and allow the cherry topping to cool completely before spreading over the cheesecake.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Be careful not to overbeat, as the cream can turn into butter. Keep it fluffy and light!
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, spread the cherry topping evenly over the surface.
- Pipe or dollop the whipped cream on top of the cheesecake, creating decorative swirls or borders.
- Optionally, garnish with chocolate shavings or additional fresh cherries.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy the smooth, creamy layers of cheesecake, chocolate, cherries, and whipped cream all in one delicious bite!
Notes
- For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle some chocolate syrup over the whipped cream or sprinkle crushed chocolate cookies on top.
- If using fresh cherries, you can cook them with sugar and cornstarch to create a similar topping to the canned cherries.
- The cheesecake is best served chilled, so give it time to set in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Black Forest cheesecake, decadent cheesecake, chocolate, cherries, whipped cream, dessert, creamy cheesecake