Description
Rich, chocolatey, and topped with a luscious cherry layer, these Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They combine the best of two worlds—chocolate cake and cheesecake—with a fruity twist that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a party or indulging in a cozy night at home, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chocolate Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries (optional, for added texture)
- 1 tablespoon chocolate shavings or chips (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
- Make the Chocolate Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix in the egg until smooth.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until fully combined and a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until smooth and lump-free.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled chocolate base and spread evenly.
- Bake the Cheesecake Layer
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when shaken.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Add the Cherry Topping
- Once chilled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- For added texture, sprinkle fresh or frozen cherries on top.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or chips for a finishing touch.
- Slice and Serve
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Cool Completely: Let the bars cool fully before adding the cherry topping to ensure clean layers.
- Customize the Base: You can swap the chocolate base for a brownie or graham cracker crust if you prefer.
- Don’t Overbake: The cheesecake should have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven. It will set as it cools.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cuisine: American