Certainly! Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious Black Forest Cheesecake:
### Ingredients:
#### For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (you can use Oreos or any chocolate sandwich cookies)
– 1/4 cup melted butter
#### For the cheesecake filling:
– 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup sour cream
#### For the cherry topping:
– 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
### Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to help press it down firmly. Place the crust in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
3. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and sour cream until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust, spreading it out evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
5. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
6. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracking.
7. After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely.
8. Before serving, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake, spreading it out evenly.
9. If desired, you can add a touch of almond extract to the cherry topping for extra flavor.
10. Slice and serve your Black Forest Cheesecake chilled. Enjoy!
Feel free to adjust the recipe according to your taste preferences, and have fun baking!
