Black Forest Cheesecake

Black Forest Cheesecake is a delightful variation of the classic cheesecake, incorporating the flavors of the famous Black Forest cake. Here’s a basic recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (you can use chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

For Topping:

• 1 cup cherries (fresh or canned), pitted and halved
• Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
   • Add the sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • Pour the filling over the crust.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set and the top is slightly golden. The edges should be firm.
5. Cool the Cheesecake:
   • Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for about an hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
   • In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate and heavy cream together, either over a double boiler or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
7. Assemble the Black Forest Cheesecake:
   • Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the chocolate ganache over the top.
   • Arrange the halved cherries on top of the ganache.
8. Serve:
   • Release the springform pan and transfer the cheesecake to a serving plate. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream.

Enjoy your delicious Black Forest Cheesecake!