Dive into Decadence: Black Forest Cheesecake Bliss!

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers (or chocolate wafers), sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing in between each addition until smooth.
Add the sour cream, heavy cream, and cocoa powder, and mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggles when shaken.
Turn off the oven, leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually. Then, remove from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set fully.
Step 4: Make the Cherry Topping

In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool to room temperature before topping the cheesecake.
Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a medium mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Refrigerate the whipped cream until ready to use.
Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake

Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
Top with the cooled cherry sauce, spreading it evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
Pipe or spread the whipped cream around the edges of the cheesecake.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cheesecake into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy the blissful layers of creamy cheesecake, decadent chocolate, and sweet cherries with every bite!
Serving and Storage Tips: