Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Delight

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Crust:

1 ½ cups (150g) chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreo or chocolate graham crackers)
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup (240ml) sour cream
2 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Black Forest Layer:

1 can (14 oz) pitted cherries in syrup (or 1 ½ cups fresh cherries)
1 tbsp cornstarch
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
2 tbsp cherry liqueur or brandy (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chocolate Crust:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Press it firmly with the back of a spoon.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the vanilla extract and flour, and mix well.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the sour cream until fully combined and smooth.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled chocolate crust in the springform pan.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set (it should still slightly jiggle when shaken).

Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture.

3. Prepare the Black Forest Layer:

In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and cornstarch. If using cherry liqueur or brandy, add it here.
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries start to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and allow the cherry mixture to cool to room temperature.

Once the cheesecake has chilled, spread the cooled Black Forest cherry mixture over the top of the cheesecake.

4. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:

In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
Spread the whipped cream over the cherry layer or pipe it around the edges of the cake for a decorative effect.
Garnish the cheesecake with shaved chocolate or chocolate curls for extra indulgence.

5. Chill:

Chill the Black Forest Cheesecake Delight for at least 1 hour after adding the whipped cream and garnishes to ensure everything sets properly.

Serving:

Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate.
Slice and enjoy the indulgent layers of chocolate crust, creamy cheesecake, sweet cherry topping, and fluffy whipped cream.

Tips:

For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add 2-3 tbsp of cocoa powder to the crust mixture or mix some melted dark chocolate into the cheesecake batter.

Cherry Substitutes: You can use frozen cherries if fresh or canned cherries aren’t available, but be sure to thaw and drain them well.
Optional Variation: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some crushed chocolate biscuits or nuts (like almonds or walnuts) on top before serving.

This Heavenly Black Forest Cheesecake Delight is the ultimate combination of rich, creamy, fruity, and chocolatey flavors. It's sure to be a hit at any gathering!