Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony
A delightful dessert combining rich chocolate flavors and cherries, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 24 pieces Oreo cookies, finely crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling
- 3 packages cream cheese, room temperature 8-ounce each
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
For the ganache and garnish
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- Fresh raspberries for garnish
- Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the crushed Oreos and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Blend in sour cream, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just enough to incorporate.
- Fold in the cherry pie filling gently.
Baking
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is just set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
Ganache Preparation
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate. Let sit for one minute, then stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake.
Chilling and Serving
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to set, preferably overnight.
- Just before serving, garnish with fresh raspberries and chocolate shavings.
- Serve slices of Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony chilled, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh cherries.
Notes
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling. Don't overmix the eggs; blend just until incorporated to avoid cracks. For an enhanced chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the filling. Allow the cheesecake to chill overnight for the best texture and flavor.