There’s nothing quite like a sumptuous dessert to lift your spirits and indulge your cravings, right? Picture this: layers of creamy chocolate cheesecake resting on a crunchy Oreo crust, topped with sweet cherry pie filling and fluffy whipped cream—an irresistible No Bake Black Forest Cheesecake that will leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even the recipe!). This decadent dessert is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a celebratory gathering with friends.
You’re in for a treat, my friend! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and transform your kitchen into a sweet oasis.
Why You’ll Love No Bake Black Forest Cheesecake
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a little pinch of cayenne or opt for a different fruit topping. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the cherry topping to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in No Bake Black Forest Cheesecake
Here’s the magic of this cheesecake—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Oreo Crust: The base of this dessert; crunchy and chocolatey Oreos bring sweetness and texture to the cheesecake.
Salted Butter: The rich, buttery flavor ties the crust together, making it irresistible.
Chocolate Cheesecake Layer: Creamy and decadent, this layer is the star of the show, delivering rich chocolate goodness that melts in your mouth.
Cream Cheese: The foundation that gives the cheesecake its creamy texture.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the rich flavors.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor, making it even more indulgent.
Sour Cream or Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness and helps create creaminess.
Cherry Pie Filling: A delicious topping that adds a burst of fruity flavor.
Whipped Topping: For a light and fluffy finish that makes every bite delightful.
Toppings: You can never go wrong with extra whipped cream and cherry pie filling on top!
Optional Garnish: Chocolate shavings for that extra touch of elegance.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
1. Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your refrigerator. This ensures that your cheesecake sets properly and maintains its creamy texture.
2. Combine Crust Ingredients: In a large bowl, crush the Oreos into fine crumbs and mix them with melted salted butter until fully combined. It should resemble wet sand. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer for your crust.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In another bowl, blend the room-temperature cream cheese and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth. Add in the cocoa powder and mix until well-incorporated.
4. Mix in Sour Cream: Gently fold in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until fully combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the final texture.
5. Add Cherry Pie Filling: Fold in the cherry pie filling gently to create a marbled effect. This adds both flavor and visual appeal to your no-bake cheesecake.
6. Fold in Whipped Topping: Carefully incorporate the whipped topping until everything is just combined. This will lighten the mixture and give it that creamy texture.
7. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared Oreo crust and spread it evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
8. Finishing Touches: Before serving, add additional whipped cream on top, spoon more cherry pie filling, and if you like, sprinkle chocolate shavings for that extra touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Slice into wedges and dig in!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
How to Serve No Bake Black Forest Cheesecake
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Fresh Fruits: Pair it with strawberries or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee is the perfect complement to the sweetness of the cheesecake.
- Chocolate Shavings: Add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top for those extra chocolatey bites.
- Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dessert is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply slice and serve with an elegant presentation.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by mixing the crust and cheesecake filling the night before. Store everything in the refrigerator overnight for a quick assembly the next day.
Stay Cool: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing—this avoids lumps in your cheesecake filling.
Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular Oreos for gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day in the fridge!
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. A homemade dessert ready and waiting can be a lifesaver for future gatherings.
PrintNo Bake Black Forest Cheesecake: A Decadent Dessert to Impress
This No Bake Black Forest Cheesecake features a rich Oreo crust, creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, and luscious cherry pie topping—all without turning on the oven. It’s the perfect crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 24 Oreo cookies, crushed into fine crumbs
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (plus more for topping)
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Extra whipped topping, for garnish
- Chocolate shavings, for optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your refrigerator to ensure a proper chill for your cheesecake.
- In a large bowl, mix crushed Oreos with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add cocoa powder and mix until fully incorporated.
- Fold in sour cream or Greek yogurt gently until evenly combined.
- Add cherry pie filling and gently fold to create a marbled effect.
- Fold in whipped topping carefully until mixture is light and creamy.
- Pour the mixture over the prepared crust, smooth the top, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, top with extra whipped cream, spoon over more cherry pie filling, and sprinkle with chocolate shavings if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
- Do not overmix to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Let chill overnight for best results.
- Use a warm knife for clean slices when serving.
- You can substitute chocolate graham crackers for Oreos if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt?
A1: Absolutely! Greek yogurt will create a slightly tangier flavor but will still be delicious.
Q2: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a fantastic make-ahead recipe. Prepare it the day before and store it in the refrigerator.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze this cheesecake?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Since this is a no-bake cheesecake, it’s best enjoyed chilled—just serve straight from the refrigerator.
Q6: Can I use something other than cherry pie filling?
A6: Absolutely! Feel free to swap it for other fruit toppings like blueberries or strawberries.
Q7: What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A7: You can use a regular pie dish, but make sure to chill it well as it might be a bit trickier to serve.
Q8: Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?
A8: Yes! You can use non-dairy cream cheese and whipped topping. Just ensure the Oreo cookies are also dairy-free.
Q9: How do I get a smooth cheesecake texture?
A9: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature and mix it until completely smooth before adding other ingredients.
Q10: Can I use flavored whipped cream?
A10: Absolutely! Whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or chocolate would elevate the flavor wonderfully.
Conclusion
With its rich, creamy layers and delightful mix of flavors, this No Bake Black Forest Cheesecake is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Perfect for gatherings or a relaxing evening at home, it promises deliciousness with every bite. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress everyone with this incredible indulgence!