Black Forest Cheesecake Chocolate Cherry (Print-Friendly Version)

Chocolate cheesecake with cherry topping and a crisp graham crust, perfect for celebrations or gatherings.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Filling

04 - 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
07 - 3 large eggs
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Topping

09 - 21 ounces cherry pie filling
10 - 1 cup whipped cream (optional, for topping)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
02 - Combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix thoroughly until the texture is even. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan for an even base.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Blend in sugar and cocoa powder until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
04 - Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust. Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set with a slight wobble. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
05 - Run a thin knife around the edge of the cheesecake to loosen from the sides of the pan. Continue cooling at room temperature until completely set, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
06 - Once fully chilled, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Top the cheesecake evenly with cherry pie filling.
07 - Slice with a hot, clean knife for optimal presentation. Garnish each serving with whipped cream if desired, and serve chilled.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve the smoothest filling texture. Accurate baking and thorough chilling result in clean slices and optimal consistency.