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Black Forest Cheesecake

Experience the decadent flavors of Black Forest Cheesecake with layers of chocolate, cherries, and a creamy filling, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1.75 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 0.5 teaspoon almond extract
  • 0.5 cups sour cream
For the Topping
  • 15 oz cherry pie filling or fresh cherries, if you’re feeling fancy
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder, for dusting
  • Whipped cream (optional) but why not?

Method
 

Preparation of the Crust
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
  3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Add in the vanilla and almond extracts, then mix in the eggs one at a time.
  4. Finally, fold in the sour cream until everything is combined.
Bake the Cheesecake
  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes.
  3. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about an hour.
Chill and Top
  1. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. Before serving, top with the cherry pie filling, a dusting of cocoa powder, and whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Allowing the cheesecake to set properly will make all the difference. You can swap the cherry topping for strawberries or raspberries for a fun twist.