When I was a kid, Black Forest cake was a celebration in a slice—rich chocolate, tart cherries, and whipped cream that felt like a party. This Black Forest Cheesecake Cake takes everything we love about that timeless dessert and adds a creamy layer of cheesecake right in the middle. It’s lush, show-stopping, and perfect for birthdays, holidays, or those cozy winter weekends when baking feels like love. With every forkful, you get a bite of nostalgia and indulgence, wrapped into one layered masterpiece.

Key Ingredients for Black Forest Cheesecake Cake

Black Forest Cheesecake Cake ingredients in ceramic bowls — All the layers start here—from cream cheese to chocolate and cherry.

Dark chocolate or cocoa powder – base for the moist, rich chocolate cake
Cream cheese – for the smooth, tangy cheesecake center
Cherry pie filling or fresh cherries – sweet and slightly tart, the star flavor
Heavy whipping cream – for soft, billowy topping
Granulated sugar – for both cake and cheesecake layers
Eggs – create structure and richness in both layers
All-purpose flour – gives the chocolate cake its soft crumb
Vanilla extract – boosts the flavor of cream and cherry
Butter – moistens the cake and carries the chocolate flavor

Easy Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Start with the cheesecake so it has time to chill. Beat cream cheese until fluffy, then add sugar, eggs, and a splash of vanilla. Pour into a springform pan lined with parchment and bake at 325°F for 50–60 minutes. Let it cool completely and chill for several hours or overnight. This creamy layer will sit beautifully between the rich chocolate cakes in your Black Forest Cheesecake Cake.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake

Whisk cocoa, flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then stir in hot coffee or water to deepen the chocolate flavor. Divide into two pans and bake at 350°F until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool the cakes completely before assembling.

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Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. This fluffy topping is the final flourish that makes your Black Forest Cheesecake Cake look as dreamy as it tastes.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Slice of Black Forest Cheesecake Cake showing cheesecake and cherry layers — Every slice reveals creamy cheesecake and cherry-swirled richness.

Start with a layer of chocolate cake, then add a layer of cherry pie filling. Gently place the chilled cheesecake on top. Add another layer of cherries, then the second chocolate cake. Spread whipped cream generously over the top and sides. Garnish with fresh cherries, chocolate curls, or both.

Popular Variations to Try

You can use fresh cherry compote instead of canned filling for a fruitier flavor. Want more chocolate? Add a layer of ganache between the cheesecake and cake. Some bakers like to brush the cake layers with cherry liqueur or simple syrup for extra moisture. And if you love texture, toss some chopped chocolate into the cheesecake batter. This Black Forest Cheesecake Cake is endlessly adaptable to your tastes.

Mini Black Forest Cheesecake Cakes with different toppings — From ganache swirls to extra cherry compote—serve it your favorite way.

Expert Tips for Success

Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to avoid lumps. Make sure each layer is completely cool before stacking. For extra clean slices, chill the entire assembled cake for an hour before serving. If you’re short on time, bake the cheesecake layer a day or two ahead. And when spreading whipped cream, use a hot spatula for smoother sides. These small touches make a big impact on your Black Forest Cheesecake Cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! In fact, it tastes better after chilling. Assemble the day before serving and keep it refrigerated.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Absolutely. Thaw and cook them into a quick compote or use them in place of pie filling.

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Is this cake freezer-friendly?

You can freeze slices individually. Wrap in plastic and foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge.

How long will this cake last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days. Keep it covered to preserve the whipped cream and cherry topping.

Can I make it without whipped cream?

You can use stabilized whipped topping or even a cream cheese frosting if you prefer a firmer finish.

The Sweet Ending

This Black Forest Cheesecake Cake is a heartfelt blend of tradition and indulgence. With its tender chocolate layers, creamy center, and bright cherry flavor, it’s a dessert that brings people together. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday or just because, it promises comfort and joy in every slice. If you loved this recipe, don’t miss my Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake Recipe for another unforgettable treat. What’s your favorite way to bake with cherries?