If you are craving a show-stopping dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and luscious cherries, the Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe is your ultimate answer. This irresistible treat masterfully layers the intense flavors and textures of a classic Black Forest with the smooth indulgence of cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply whenever you want to spoil yourself. Every bite bursts with chocolatey goodness, a tangy cherry surprise, and a velvety cream cheese center that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, well-loved ingredients is the secret to baking a delicious Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe. Each component plays a key role in building the rich flavor, moist texture, and beautiful look of this dessert.
- Chocolate cake mix: Provides a moist, fluffy chocolate base for the cake layers with ease and consistency.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix: Adds extra chocolate richness and moistness to the cake batter.
- Water: Hydrates the cake mix to achieve the perfect batter consistency.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and soft, enhancing the moist texture.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure and lift.
- Cream cheese (softened): Creates the luscious, creamy cheesecake layer that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just enough to balance the tartness of the cherries.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
- Cherry pie filling: Injects fruity juiciness and a signature Black Forest cherry tang.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Offer bursts of melted chocolate excitement within the layers.
- Chopped walnuts (optional): Add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft cake and creamy filling.
How to Make Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing plus flouring a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk together your chocolate cake mix, instant pudding mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until you have a smooth, velvety batter that promises moist cake layers.
Step 2: Bake the First Cake Layer
Pour half of your luscious chocolate batter into the prepared pan and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You’re looking for the cake to be set and a toothpick inserted in the center to come out clean – this ensures the perfect foundation for your cheesecake layer.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
While the first cake layer cools, whip up the creamy cheesecake filling by beating softened cream cheese with sugar until completely smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract for that dreamy aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread the smooth cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled chocolate cake base. Then generously top this with dollops of cherry pie filling, sprinkle semisweet chocolate chips, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add chopped walnuts for some crunch!
Step 5: Finish Baking the Cake
Carefully pour the remaining chocolate cake batter over the cherry and cheesecake layers. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 25 to 30 minutes to bake until the top is set and slightly springy to the touch.
Step 6: Cool and Revel
Allow the entire cake to cool completely in the pan. This resting time lets the flavors meld, the cheesecake layer firm up, and makes slicing easier when you’re ready to serve this masterpiece.
How to Serve Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add bursts of flavor, consider topping each slice with a fresh cherry, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a dollop of whipped cream. These simple touches make your dessert feel extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Pairing this decadent cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce turns it into an indulgent treat. For a lighter contrast, a small bowl of fresh berries or a mint sprig adds freshness to the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this cake as mini individual portions in ramekins or as fancy parfait layers in glassware can wow your guests. Layering cake pieces with cherry filling and cream cheese mousse into glasses is a fun twist on this Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Keeping it refrigerated will preserve freshness and the delightful cream cheese layer for up to 4 days.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer bag. They stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Since this is a cheesecake cake, reheating isn’t necessary and can alter the creamy texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature to fully enjoy its rich and velvety consistency.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix for the Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! A homemade chocolate cake will add a personal touch and allow you to control ingredients, but the convenience of a mix helps ensure consistent moisture and texture.
Is it necessary to use instant chocolate pudding mix?
The pudding mix adds extra moistness and chocolaty richness to the cake layers, but you can omit it if needed; just expect slight differences in texture.
Can I substitute other nuts for walnuts?
Yes, feel free to swap walnuts with pecans, almonds, or leave out nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
Beat the cream cheese until smooth and avoid overbaking by checking the cake regularly during the last stages; a slight jiggle is okay as it firms during cooling.
Can this recipe be made in a springform pan instead of a 9×13 pan?
You can use a springform pan for a more traditional cheesecake look, but baking times may vary—start checking around 30 minutes into baking.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that marries classic, beloved flavors into one dreamy dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or craving something indulgent, baking this cake is a wonderfully rewarding experience. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how magical every slice tastes!
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Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake combines rich chocolate cake layers with a creamy cheesecake middle, topped with luscious cherry pie filling, semisweet chocolate chips, and optional walnuts. A perfect dessert offering the classic flavors of Black Forest in a moist, layered cake format.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box (18.25 ounces) chocolate cake mix
- 1 box (3 ounces) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 (12-ounce) can of cherry pie filling
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, instant chocolate pudding mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Bake First Cake Layer: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled first cake layer in the pan, creating a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Add Toppings: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips and optional chopped walnuts on top for added texture and flavor.
- Complete Cake with Remaining Batter: Carefully pour the remaining half of the cake batter over the entire top, covering the toppings. Be gentle to keep layers intact.
- Bake Final Cake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the cake is fully set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan at room temperature before slicing and serving. This ensures clean slices and set layers.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Optional walnuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for nut-free versions.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor if desired.
- Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing to maintain clean layers.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
