Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

If you love the rich, decadent flavors of chocolate and cherries, these Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are your next must-bake treat. They combine a fudgy chocolate cookie crust, a silky vanilla cheesecake layer, and a topping of sweet cherry pie filling for a dessert that’s both beautiful and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a sweet weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a delightful balance of sweetness and richness.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion—be it parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The layers of chocolate cheesecake and cherry topping make for an impressive dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Black Forest Cheesecake Bars, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (square)
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A square pan provides even baking and helps achieve those perfect bars.
• Parchment Paper: It ensures easy removal of the bars from the pan without sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to separate ingredients efficiently.
• Electric Mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your cream cheese mixture is smooth and creamy.

Ingredients

For these delightful Black Forest Cheesecake Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream (for a creamy texture)
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• Optional: dark chocolate shavings or curls for garnish
• Optional: whipped cream for serving

How to Make Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures it reaches the correct temperature for baking your cheesecake bars evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will help you lift out the bars easily once they are baked.

Step 3: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Chocolate cookie crumbs
2. Melted butter
3. Granulated sugar

Mix until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form an even layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Softened cream cheese
2. Granulated sugar

Add in eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Then mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in your baking pan. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Allow your cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, top with cherry pie filling and optional garnishes like dark chocolate shavings or whipped cream. Enjoy!

How to Serve Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are not just delicious; they are also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you want to impress guests at a dinner party or enjoy a cozy treat at home, here are some suggestions for serving these delightful bars.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the rich cheesecake.

Garnished with Chocolate

• Add dark chocolate shavings or curls on top for an elegant touch that enhances the chocolate flavor in the dessert.

Pairing with Fresh Cherries

• Serve alongside fresh cherries to add a burst of freshness and a pop of color on the plate.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these bars in a dessert platter with other treats like cookies and fruit tarts for variety and visual appeal.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cheesecake bars with a cup of coffee or tea, balancing their sweetness with the warmth of your favorite beverage.

How to Perfect Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

Making sure your Black Forest Cheesecake Bars come out perfectly is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success with your baking.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth and creamy batter without lumps.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the cheesecake batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks in the finished bars.
• Check for doneness: Bake until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
• Chill before cutting: Let the bars chill completely in the refrigerator before cutting. This helps achieve cleaner cuts and better texture.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding almond extract or lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for an added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

Complementing your Black Forest Cheesecake Bars with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here’s a list of tasty options that pair well.

1. Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing brightness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheesecake bars.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Silky chocolate mousse makes an indulgent pairing, enhancing the chocolate theme while offering different textures.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a classic balance to the intense flavors of the cheesecake bars.
4. Coffee Cake: The subtle sweetness and crumbly texture of coffee cake create a delightful contrast when served alongside these rich bars.
5. Pecan Pie Bites: These mini desserts offer nutty sweetness that complements both chocolate and cherry flavors wonderfully.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly softer varieties, provides a savory counterpoint to the sweet cheesecake bars and can be enjoyed throughout your gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when it comes to making desserts like Black Forest Cheesecake Bars. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can make it difficult to remove the cheesecake bars later. Always use parchment paper for easy lifting.
• Overmixing the batter: Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake filling, as this can introduce too much air and result in cracks. Mix until just combined.
• Not chilling properly: Failing to chill the bars long enough can cause them to be too soft and hard to cut. Allow adequate time in the refrigerator before serving.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to lumps in your batter. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can affect cooking times and texture. Always preheat your oven properly for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Black Forest Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Black Forest Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bars for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a non-stick pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Black Forest Cheesecake Bars?

Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert combining a chocolate cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and cherry topping. They offer rich flavors perfect for any occasion.

Can I use different fruit toppings?

Yes! While cherries are traditional, you can swap them for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a unique twist on these Black Forest Cheesecake Bars.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will firm up as it cools.

Are there any vegan alternatives for this recipe?

You can use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream substitutes along with a flaxseed mixture instead of eggs to make vegan Black Forest Cheesecake Bars.

Final Thoughts

These Black Forest Cheesecake Bars are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. Their combination of chocolate, cream cheese, and cherries makes them perfect for any gathering or a special treat at home. Feel free to customize your bars with different toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste!