If you’re looking for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, this Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony is your new masterpiece. It’s a stunning combination of creamy chocolate cheesecake, sweet-tart cherry filling, and fluffy whipped cream — a dessert that truly feels like a celebration.
The first time I made it was for my anniversary dinner. I wanted something rich but romantic, and I couldn’t choose between a Black Forest cake or a cheesecake — so I combined them. When I sliced into it, with layers of silky chocolate and glossy cherries, it was pure dessert music. My husband said it was “the best cheesecake ever,” and it’s been a special-occasion favorite ever since, right next to my Pink Party Donuts and Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies.
Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just blended. Stir in vanilla, melted chocolate, and sour cream until creamy.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is just set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door cracked for 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight). Spoon cherry pie filling over the top, spreading evenly.
- Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe whipped cream over the cherry layer. Garnish with chocolate curls or shavings.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony
This dessert is everything you want in a showpiece cheesecake — creamy, chocolatey, and balanced with bursts of tart cherry. It’s rich without being heavy, sweet without being cloying, and absolutely gorgeous when sliced.
If you’re a fan of desserts that mix smooth and fruity flavors like my Pistachio Chocolate Bar Cookies or Garten’s Cranberry Orange Bread, you’re going to fall head over heels for this one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Cherry Layer:
- 1 can cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Chocolate curls or shavings (for garnish)
If you love rich, layered desserts, you’ll also adore my Strawberry Shortcake Puppy Chow — it’s another crowd-pleaser with a fun, sweet twist.
How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Mix cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just blended. Stir in vanilla, melted chocolate, and sour cream until creamy.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door cracked for 1 hour.
Step 4: Chill and Layer
Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight). Spoon cherry pie filling over the top, spreading evenly.
Step 5: Add the Whipped Topping
Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cherry layer. Garnish with chocolate curls or shavings.
If you love desserts that look as impressive as they taste, this recipe is as rewarding as my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes — both comfort and class in one bite.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake
- Use room temperature ingredients: It ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Don’t overbake: The center should still have a slight wobble.
- Cool gradually: Sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.
- Use a water bath: For an extra silky texture, wrap the pan in foil and bake in a larger pan filled halfway with hot water.
Those same “slow and steady” rules make recipes like my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole turn out perfectly every time.
How to Store and Freeze
Storage: Keep cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze (without whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then decorate before serving.
Serving Tip: Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.
Like my Christmas Bread Recipe, this dessert tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
Flavor Variations
- Black Forest Mousse Cheesecake: Fold whipped cream into the filling for a lighter texture.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
- White Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate.
- Mocha Forest Cheesecake: Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder for a deeper flavor.
If you enjoy creative desserts with layers of flavor, this one’s as inspiring as my Cajun Seafood Alfredo.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use homemade cherry filling?
Yes! Fresh or frozen cherries cooked with sugar and cornstarch work beautifully.
2. How do I prevent cracks?
Avoid overmixing and let it cool slowly in the oven.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely — it’s best when chilled overnight.
4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, but the flavor will be milder and sweeter.
The Final Bite
This Black Forest Cheesecake Symphony is a dessert that sings — rich chocolate notes, sweet cherries, and creamy cheesecake all harmonizing in perfect balance. It’s a showstopper that feels fancy but comes together with simple, familiar ingredients.
Serve it after dinner, at holidays, or anytime you need a dessert that makes people stop mid-bite. Every forkful is a reminder that simple baking can feel luxurious — right from your own kitchen.