Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan using the back of a spoon or measuring cup. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Add the cocoa powder and mix until well incorporated and no streaks remain.
6. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next.
7. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and melted chocolate. Mix until the batter is smooth and glossy.
8. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

9. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet (or wrap the pan in foil if using a water bath). Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
10. Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour to reduce the risk of cracking.
11. Remove from oven and let cool completely to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Topping (If Using Fresh Cherries)

12. In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and cherries soften, about 5–7 minutes.
13. Remove from heat and let the cherry topping cool completely before using.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake