Description
If you love the rich, chocolatey goodness of Black Forest cake and the creamy decadence of cheesecake, these Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert mashup! With a chocolate cookie crust, a luscious cheesecake layer, and a topping of sweet cherries and chocolate shavings, these bars are elegant yet simple to make. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll be a show-stopper at your next gathering.
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate sandwich cookies, finely crushed (about 20 cookies)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup dark chocolate, shaved or grated
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a bowl, mix the crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add the sugar and mix until combined.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and flour. Mix until the batter is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake the cheesecake layer in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles.
- Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.
- Sprinkle the top with shaved chocolate for a beautiful finish.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan.
- Slice into squares or rectangles, and garnish with whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake batter.
- Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality dark chocolate adds a luxurious touch.
- Chill Thoroughly: Patience is key—let the cheesecake chill completely for clean slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American