Black Forest Cheesecake

Indulge in the rich flavors of black forest cake in cheesecake form with this easy, no-bake recipe. Our contest-winning recipe combines the classic elements of creamy cheesecake layers with a chocolate crumb crust and a topping of sweet cherry pie filling.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a special treat, this black forest cheesecake recipe is sure to impress. Plus, the layered presentation and decadent flavors will have your guests thinking you spent hours in the kitchen when, in reality, your refrigerator did most of the work!

Ingredients for Black Forest Cheesecake

Jena Carlin for Taste of Home

• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese forms the base of the cheesecake layer, providing a rich and tangy flavor.
• Sugar: White sugar adds sweetness to the cream cheese mixture and helps balance out the tang.
• Sour cream: A cup of sour cream adds tanginess and contributes to the creamy texture of the black forest cheesecake.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of this dessert. Here’s how to make homemade vanilla extract.
• Whipped topping: Thawed whipped topping gives the cheesecake its light and fluffy texture. You can easily substitute it with whipped cream.
• Chocolate crumb crust: A 9-inch chocolate crumb crust serves as the foundation for the layers of this rich black forest cake cheesecake.
• Baking cocoa: The addition of baking cocoa imparts a rich chocolate flavor to the second layer of this black forest cheesecake. For an intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder.
• Confectioners’ sugar: A tablespoon of powdered sugar helps to sweeten the decadent chocolate layer.
• Cherry pie filling: A can of cherry pie filling serves as the classic topping for this iconic cake, adding a fruity contrast to the creamy cheesecake layers.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the cheesecake mixture

Jena Carlin for Taste of Home

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.

Editor’s Tip: Make sure the ingredients are at room temperature before beating to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.

Step 2: Assemble the first layer

Jena Carlin for Taste of Home

Spread half the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of the chocolate crumb crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Make the chocolate layer and chill

Jena Carlin for Taste of Home

In a separate bowl, fold the baking cocoa and confectioners’ sugar into the remaining cream cheese mixture. Carefully spread this chocolate mixture over the first cream cheese layer. Refrigerate the assembled black forest cheesecake for at least four hours or overnight, until set. Cut the chilled black forest cheesecake into individual slices and top with a spoonful of cherry pie filling just before serving.

Jena Carlin for Taste of Home

Black Forest Cheesecake Variations

• Add a brownie base: For an extra chocolatey treat, use a layer of crumbled brownies as the base instead of the chocolate crumb crust.
• Use different fruits: For a different flavor profile, swap the cherry pie filling with raspberry or strawberry pie filling.
• Make it boozy: Add a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) to the cherry pie filling for a boozy twist on this black forest cheesecake.
• Add a chocolate ganache topping: Pour a layer of rich chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake before adding the cherry pie topping.
• Top it with whipped cream: For a lighter finish, add a dollop of fresh whipped cream to the cherry pie filling.

How to Store Black Forest Cheesecake

Store this black forest cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Leftovers are best wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from absorbing any odors while stored in the fridge.

Can you freeze black forest cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this no-bake black forest cheesecake—just leave off the cherry pie topping. After it has set in the refrigerator, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze it for up to six months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and top with the cherry pie filling just before serving.

Black Forest Cheesecake Tips

Jena Carlin for Taste of Home

How to prevent the layers from mixing in a no-bake black forest cheesecake?

Chilling the first layer for about 30 minutes before adding the chocolate layer will help keep the layers distinct in your black forest cheesecake.

Can you use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries to top your black forest cheesecake. Cook pitted cherries with sugar, cherry juice and a bit of cornstarch to create a homemade cherry topping that’s less sweet than the canned version.

What can you serve with black forest cheesecake?

Serve slices of this black forest cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a more pronounced chocolate flavor.

How do you achieve a smooth texture in a no-bake cheesecake?

For the ideal texture in this no-bake black forest cheesecake, make sure the ingredients are all at room temperature before mixing. Beat the cream cheese until it’s completely smooth, and gently fold in the whipped topping to maintain its light and airy texture.