Description
These rich and creamy Black Forest Cheesecake Bars combine a chocolate cookie crust, smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, and sweet cherry topping. Inspired by the classic flavors of Black Forest cake, these bars are perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you crave a decadent chocolate-cherry dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Optional: dark chocolate shavings or curls
Optional: whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.
- Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and salt until smooth. Do not overmix.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to firm up.
- Once chilled, spread cherry pie filling evenly over the top. Garnish with chocolate shavings or whipped cream if desired.
- Lift out using parchment, slice into bars, and serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes