Description

This No-Bake Black Forest Berry Cheesecake is a luscious and elegant dessert featuring a chocolate cookie crumb crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, swirls of cherry preserves, and a vibrant topping of fresh mixed berries and dark chocolate shavings. Perfectly chilled and easy to prepare without any baking, it offers a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart cherry flavors with a light, fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Filling

16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

Topping

1/2 cup cherry preserves or jam
1 cup mixed fresh berries (such as cherries, blackberries, and raspberries)
1 ounce dark chocolate (shaved or grated, for topping)

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Instructions

Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until fully blended. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you make the filling.
Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care not to deflate the volume to maintain a light texture.
Assemble the first layer: Spread half of the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust in the springform pan. Spoon half of the cherry preserves over this layer and gently swirl it using a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect.
Layer again: Repeat by spreading the remaining cheesecake filling on top, followed by the remaining cherry preserves, swirling again to incorporate the jam visually.
Add toppings: Arrange the fresh mixed berries evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Sprinkle with the shaved or grated dark chocolate for a beautiful and flavorful finish.
Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
Serve: Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan and serve chilled, enjoying the rich and refreshing dessert.

Notes

For a lighter variation, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and add Greek yogurt to replace a portion of the heavy cream.
Frozen berries can be used if fresh are not available, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
Make sure to chill the crust well before adding the filling to help it set firmly and prevent sogginess.