These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are a dreamy combination of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherry filling—all layered into a decadent dessert. With a buttery chocolate crust, a smooth vanilla cheesecake, and a cherry topping, these bars are an irresistible treat for any occasion.
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Why You’ll Love These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
✔ Rich & Creamy – Silky cheesecake paired with deep chocolate flavors.
✔ Cherry Bliss – A sweet, juicy cherry topping takes these bars to the next level.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, easy steps, and a show-stopping result.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet family treat.
Ingredients for Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreo or chocolate graham crackers)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup chocolate shavings or melted chocolate drizzle
- Whipped cream (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping
- In a small bowl, mix cherry pie filling with almond extract (if using).
- Spread the cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
- Slice into bars, top with whipped cream (if desired), and serve chilled.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with: A hot cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped toasted almonds or walnuts on top.
- For a Fancy Touch: Use fresh cherries instead of canned filling.
Tips for the Best Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth cheesecake texture.
✔ Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for the best consistency.
✔ Don’t Overbake – The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
✔ Line the Pan – Use parchment paper for easy removal and slicing.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Serve: Thaw in the fridge overnight before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! These bars taste even better after chilling overnight.
Q2: Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?
A: Absolutely! Just simmer 1 ½ cups fresh cherries with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch until thickened.
Q3: Can I use a different crust?
A: Yes! Try using a classic graham cracker crust or a brownie base for extra richness.
Conclusion: A Chocolate-Cherry Dream Come True!
These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars bring together the classic flavors of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherries into an irresistible dessert. Perfect for any occasion, these bars will impress your family and friends with every bite!
Did you make this recipe? Leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your creations.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Information (per bar)
Calories: 290
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy every bite of these chocolatey, creamy, cherry-filled cheesecake bars!
Print
Black Forest Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are a dreamy combination of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherry filling—all layered into a decadent dessert. With a buttery chocolate crust, a smooth vanilla cheesecake, and a cherry topping, these bars are an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreo or chocolate graham crackers)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup chocolate shavings or melted chocolate drizzle
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping
- In a small bowl, mix cherry pie filling with almond extract (if using).
- Spread the cherry topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with chocolate shavings.
- Slice into bars, top with whipped cream (if desired), and serve chilled.
Notes
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth cheesecake texture.
Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for the best consistency.
Don’t Overbake – The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Line the Pan – Use parchment paper for easy removal and slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American
