Black Forest Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Oreo cookie crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated with butter and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press into Pan: Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform pan using the back of a spoon or your fingers. Make sure it’s tightly packed.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder together until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until just combined.
4. Incorporate the Melted Chocolate: Slowly mix in the cooled melted chocolate, making sure the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the Filling Over the Crust: Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over the cooled Oreo crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Prepare a Water Bath: Wrap the outside of the springform pan in two layers of aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan inside a larger roasting pan and pour hot water into the roasting pan until it comes about halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
3. Bake: Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake sit in the oven for another 1 hour to cool gradually.
4. Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Topping

1. Cook the Cherries: In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cherries release their juices and soften.
2. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the cherry topping cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream

1. Beat the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.

Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Top with Cherries: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spoon the cooled cherry topping over the top, spreading it evenly.
2. Add Whipped Cream: Pipe or spoon dollops of the whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake for a decorative touch.
3. Garnish: Garnish with chocolate shavings, fresh cherries, or a drizzle of melted chocolate if desired.

Step 7: Serve

1. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, wiping the blade between cuts. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for the Best Black Forest Cheesecake:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Water Bath: Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps prevent cracking and ensures even baking.
• Cooling Gradually: Letting the cheesecake cool in the oven helps prevent it from sinking or cracking.

Conclusion:

This Black Forest Cheesecake is a stunning dessert that marries the flavors of rich chocolate, tangy cherries, and fluffy whipped cream into a delightful cheesecake. Perfect for celebrations, this dessert is sure to impress your guests with its luxurious taste and beautiful presentation.

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