If you love the rich, decadent flavors of chocolate and cherries, these Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are your next must-bake treat. They combine a fudgy chocolate cookie crust, a silky vanilla cheesecake layer, and a topping of sweet cherry pie filling for a dessert that’s both beautiful and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet weekend indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.
- Visually Stunning: The layers of cheesecake and cherry topping make this dessert as beautiful as it is tasty.
- Customizable Toppings: Add whipped cream or dark chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious Black Forest Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking pan (square)
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly.
- Electric mixer: Makes blending cream cheese smooth and easy.
- Baking pan: A square pan provides even baking for the perfect texture.
- Parchment paper: Helps with easy removal of the bars after baking.
Ingredients
For these delicious Black Forest Cheesecake Bars, gather the following ingredients:
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream (for a creamy texture)
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- Optional: dark chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
- Optional: whipped cream for serving
How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure it’s ready when you put your cheesecake bars in.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will help you lift out the bars easily once they are baked.
Step 3: Create the Cookie Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well blended.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form an even layer.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In another mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth using an electric mixer.
- Add eggs one at a time while still mixing. Incorporate vanilla extract, sour cream, and salt until fully combined.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in your baking pan.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 6: Cool and Top
Once baked, let it cool completely before adding cherry pie filling on top. Chill in the refrigerator before serving to enhance flavors.
Enjoy these delightful Black Forest Cheesecake Bars at your next gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself!
How to Serve Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cheesecake bars experience.
Classic Serving
- Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and visual appeal.
Garnished with Dark Chocolate
- Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings or curls over the bars to enhance the chocolate flavor and make them look elegant.
Accompanied by Fresh Cherries
- Fresh cherries on the side add a burst of freshness that complements the cheesecake beautifully.
Plated with Chocolate Sauce
- Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the bars before serving for an indulgent touch.
How to Perfect Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
Achieving perfect Black Forest Cheesecake Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert shines.
Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the cream cheese blend smoothly, resulting in a creamy texture.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to prevent air bubbles from forming, which can cause cracks in your cheesecake layer.
Bake in a water bath: This technique helps regulate temperature and keeps the cheesecake moist, preventing cracks.
Chill thoroughly: Allowing your bars to cool completely in the refrigerator enhances their flavor and allows them to set properly.
Cut with a hot knife: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, even slices.
Best Side Dishes for Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
Pairing side dishes with your Black Forest Cheesecake Bars can create a fuller dining experience. Here are some delicious options:
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that balances the richness of the cheesecake bars.Chocolate Mousse
Light and airy, chocolate mousse complements the flavors while providing a different texture.Vanilla Ice Cream
Creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the dense cheesecake, making each bite delightful.Coffee or Espresso
A cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors of chocolate and cherry, creating a perfect after-dinner pairing.Nutty Granola
A crunchy granola adds texture and nuttiness, which can be sprinkled on top or served on the side.Cheese Platter
An assortment of cheeses offers savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks. Mix until just combined for a smooth texture.
- Don’t use cold cream cheese. Cold cream cheese won’t blend well, resulting in lumps. Always let it soften at room temperature before mixing.
- Watch out for underbaking the bars. Undercooking may lead to a runny cheesecake center. Keep an eye on the baking time and do a toothpick test.
- Skip the cherry topping until serving. Adding cherry filling too early can make the crust soggy. Wait until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
- Use wrong-sized pan. Using a pan that’s too big or too small affects baking time and texture. Stick to the specified size for optimal results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then in foil for extra protection.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat with a lid for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Black Forest Cheesecake Bars?
These bars are a delightful combination of chocolate cookie crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake, and sweet cherry topping.
How do I customize my Black Forest Cheesecake Bars?
You can add different flavors like almond extract or mix in chocolate chips for added richness.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free cookie crumbs as a substitute for traditional chocolate cookie crumbs.
What if I don’t have cherry pie filling?
You can use fresh cherries cooked down with sugar or any other fruit topping you enjoy.
Are these bars suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! They’re perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home.
Final Thoughts
These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are not only rich and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or flavorings, making each batch uniquely yours! Dive into this decadent dessert today and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!
Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Black Forest Cheesecake Bars, a delightful fusion of fudgy chocolate crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and a luscious cherry topping. These bars are not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to cozy nights in. With each bite, you’ll experience the rich decadence of chocolate paired with the sweet tang of cherries. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that even novice bakers can impress their friends and family with a dessert that’s sure to steal the spotlight.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 bars 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreo, without filling)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
- Pinch of salt
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- Optional: dark chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and salt until fully combined.
- Pour cheesecake filling over crust and bake for 45-50 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly.
- Let cool completely before topping with cherry pie filling. Refrigerate before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added richness, consider mixing in chocolate chips or using almond extract instead of vanilla. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
