The Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe is a magnificent treat that wonderfully combines the rich, fudgy flavors of chocolate cake with the creamy tang of cheesecake, all crowned with sweet cherry pie filling. It’s a dessert that looks impressive yet is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for impressing guests or spoiling yourself on any occasion. Every bite delivers layers of texture and flavor that melt together beautifully, making this cake just as indulgent as it sounds.

Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward creating this show-stopping dessert. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the texture, sweetness, and that iconic Black Forest flavor profile.

Chocolate cake mix: A convenient base providing rich chocolate flavor and a tender crumb.
Instant chocolate pudding mix: Adds extra moistness and dense chocolate richness.
Water: Hydrates the dry ingredients, ensuring proper batter consistency.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist without overpowering flavor.
Eggs: Bind all the ingredients and give structure to the cake layers.
Cream cheese, softened: The heart of the cheesecake layer, adding creaminess and tang.
Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just enough to balance flavors.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
Cherry pie filling: Brings that classic Black Forest cherry component, bursting with sweet and tart goodness.
Semisweet chocolate chips: Adds pockets of melty chocolate for extra decadence.
Chopped walnuts (optional): Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to contrast the creamy cheesecake.

How to Make Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your 9×13 inch baking pan with grease and flour to ensure the cake won’t stick. Next, combine the chocolate cake mix, instant pudding, water, vegetable oil, and eggs in a large bowl. Beat these until the batter is smooth and luscious, setting the foundation for the chocolate cake layers in this dessert.

Step 2: Bake the First Cake Layer

Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step lays the first chocolate layer which will support the creamy cheesecake filling later on.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

While the cake layer cools, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy, then stir in the vanilla extract. This tangy, velvety mixture will be the luscious middle layer in your Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Once the first cake layer has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top. Then, generously spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer—it’s these cherries that bring authentic Black Forest charm. Sprinkle chocolate chips and walnuts over the cherries to add depth in texture and flavor.

Step 5: Finish with Remaining Batter and Bake

Carefully pour the remaining chocolate cake batter over the entire top, covering the cheesecake and cherry layers completely. Pop your masterpiece back into the oven for another 25 to 30 minutes until the top is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Letting the layers bake together results in a scrumptiously unified cake.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Patience pays off with this recipe—allow the cake to cool fully in the pan. This helps the layers settle into a perfect sliceable texture so that every serving showcases the beautiful chocolate, cheesecake, and cherry combo in glorious harmony.

How to Serve Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, add a dollop of whipped cream on each slice, and sprinkle extra chocolate shavings or fresh cherries on top. These simple touches make your plate look like a bakery masterpiece and add creaminess and freshness to every bite.

Side Dishes

This rich dessert pairs well with light, fresh accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a handful of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the richness with a cool, fruity contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices in glass jars layered with extra cherry compote and whipped cream for a fun twist. Or, serve small, bite-sized squares on a dessert platter to impress at parties. The Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy slices at your convenience without losing texture or flavor.

Freezing

This cake freezes well if wrapped properly. Slice it first, then individually wrap portions in plastic and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy make-ahead dessert option that tastes just as decadent as fresh.

Reheating

This cheesecake cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warmed, pop a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This gently melts the chocolate chips and enhances the overall gooey, indulgent experience of the Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use homemade chocolate cake batter instead of the cake mix?

Absolutely! Using your favorite homemade chocolate cake batter will work wonderfully in this recipe. The box mix just makes it quicker, but from-scratch always adds a personal touch.

What if I don’t like walnuts? Can I leave them out?

Totally! Walnuts are optional and can be omitted or swapped for other nuts like pecans or almonds based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Can I substitute cherry pie filling with fresh cherries?

You can, but fresh cherries won’t have the same syrupy sweetness or consistency. If using fresh, cook them lightly with sugar to mimic the pie filling texture and flavor.

How long does it take to bake this cake in total?

Including both baking stages, the cake takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Make sure not to rush cooling to get those perfect layers!

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Definitely! The Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe looks stunning and tastes indulgent, making it an excellent centerpiece dessert for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that feels both familiar and special, the Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe is a must-try. With its luscious layers of chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and vibrant cherries, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of elegance to your table without any fuss. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite recipes to share and savor!

Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake Recipe

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4.2 from 43 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This Decadent Black Forest Cheesecake Cake combines rich chocolate cake layers with a creamy cheesecake filling, topped with luscious cherry pie filling, melty chocolate chips, and optional crunchy walnuts for a delightful twist on the classic Black Forest dessert. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent dessert cravings, this cake offers layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

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 cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

1 (12-ounce) can cherry pie filling
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the cake does not stick and bakes evenly.
Make Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, instant pudding mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat thoroughly until the mixture is smooth with no lumps.
Bake First Cake Layer: Pour half of the prepared batter into the greased pan and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled first cake layer, creating a smooth surface.
Add Toppings: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer evenly. Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips and chopped walnuts (if using) on top of the cherries.
Finish with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining half of the chocolate cake batter gently over the toppings, trying to cover them as much as possible without disturbing the layers below. Smooth the top carefully.
Bake the Entire Cake: Return the assembled cake to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick near the edges into the cake batter layer. It should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing and serving to ensure clean cuts and optimal texture.

Notes

Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before beating for a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
Use a toothpick to test cake doneness for accurate baking times, especially since the cake has layered textures.
Chopped walnuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free dessert.
The cake is best served at room temperature for full flavor and texture.
Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-48 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American