
The Chocolate Cherry Heaven combines deep chocolate tones, sweet cherries, and smooth cheesecake in one amazing treat. This spin on traditional Black Forest recipes uses a snappy cookie base, velvety chocolate cheesecake middle, and loads of sweet cherry topping. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and fancy chocolate bits, it looks as good as it tastes. Make this for your next party or just because—everyone will ask for seconds.
INGREDIENTS- Chocolate cookie crumbs: 1 ½ cups, they make up the crunchy foundation.
- Melted butter: ¼ cup, it holds the cookie base together.
- Cream cheese (softened): 24 oz, creates the smooth, creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, adds the needed sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, brings out all the other flavors.
- Eggs: 3 large, they give the cake its texture and body.
- Sour cream: ½ cup, adds a nice tang and extra creaminess.
- Cocoa powder: ¼ cup, gives that intense chocolate taste.
- Cherry pie filling: 1 can, creates the sweet fruity layer.
- Whipped cream: for garnish, adds a cloud-like topping.
- Chocolate shavings: for garnish, finishes with a bit of fancy flair.
- Step 1:
- Get your oven going at 325°F (160°C). Stir together the cookie crumbs and melted butter, then push them down into a springform pan to form the base. Put it aside.
- Step 2:
- Grab a big bowl and mix your softened cream cheese with the sugar and vanilla until it's all smooth and lump-free.
- Step 3:
- Drop in the eggs one by one, mixing really well after each. Then fold in your sour cream and cocoa powder until everything's blended nicely.
- Step 4:
- Pour all that creamy mixture over your prepared crust, making sure it's nice and level.
- Step 5:
- Pop it in the oven for 55-60 minutes until the middle sets and the edges puff up slightly. Turn the oven off but leave your cake inside with the door cracked to cool down completely.
- Step 6:
- After it's cooled down, spread all the cherry filling across the top. Add some whipped cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings for that wow factor.
- Step 7:
- Let the whole thing chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight so it can set properly before you serve it.
- Make sure you chill it for 4+ hours so it gets firm and all the flavors blend together nicely.
- Cover any leftovers tightly and keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Want it even more decadent? Try pouring some melted chocolate on top before you add the cherry filling.
- You can add a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) to the cherry topping for an extra kick of flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Julia says to go for premium cocoa powder if you want the richest chocolate flavor possible.
This treat brings together rich chocolate, juicy cherries, and silky cheesecake. The crunchy cookie base adds great texture, while the cherry topping and cream give it freshness and sweetness. It's perfect for any gathering, from casual dinners to birthday parties.
Stunning Celebration DessertThis dessert turns heads with its layers of dark chocolate cake and bright red cherry topping. The whipped cream and chocolate bits make it look extra fancy, perfect when you've got company. Serve it cold for a refreshing sweet finish that'll have everyone raving.
FAQsCan I use homemade cherry filling?
Absolutely! Homemade cherry filling works great and can taste even better than canned.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
You sure can. Just wrap it really well in plastic and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in your fridge overnight before serving.
What type of cookies should I use for the crust?
You can't go wrong with Oreos with the cream scraped off or plain chocolate wafer cookies for the base.
