Name: No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 150 g Bourbon biscuits; 45 g Unsalted butter, melted; 300 g Soft cream cheese; 150 ml Double cream (heavy cream); 60 g Caster sugar; 2 tbsp Kirsch (optional, for a boozy twist); 410 g Black cherry fruit filling (tinned); 150 g Blackberries; 125 g Blueberries; Zest and juice of 1 lime; 60 g Dark chocolate (for shavings or drizzle)

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 11 reviews

This No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake is what dessert dreams are made of, bringing together luscious cream cheese, a decadent chocolate biscuit base, and a crown of glossy cherries and berries. Imagine all the drama and deliciousness of Black Forest cake, but in cheesecake form—and without ever having to turn on the oven! Luxurious, stunning, and ridiculously simple, this showstopper is perfect for both celebrations and casual get-togethers.

No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake is how a handful of well-chosen ingredients work their magic. Each component is carefully picked to create layers of indulgent texture and complex flavor, from the classically crunchy biscuit base to the bright berry topping.

Bourbon biscuits: These chocolatey cookies form the base, delivering a rich, fudgy bite—substitute with Oreos or chocolate wafers if you prefer!
Unsalted butter, melted: This helps bind the biscuits for a crisp and cohesive crust that holds its shape beautifully.
Soft cream cheese: The heart of your cheesecake filling—ensure it’s at room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
Double cream (heavy cream): Whips up the filling, making it delightfully light, airy, and stable without gelatine.
Caster sugar: Dissolves seamlessly for just the right amount of gentle sweetness.
Kirsch (optional): A cherry liqueur for a touch of grown-up flair and that authentic Black Forest twist—it’s entirely up to your mood!
Black cherry fruit filling (tinned): The shortcut to bright, bold cherry flavor; seek out a quality brand packed with whole fruit.
Blackberries: They add beautiful tartness and a mellow purple hue to the berry medley.
Blueberries: These balance the tart cherries, bringing a burst of juicy freshness and color.
Zest and juice of 1 lime: A little citrus wakes up all those deep berry flavors so they truly pop.
Dark chocolate: For grating or drizzling over the top, creating classic Black Forest drama and a final hit of decadence.

How to Make No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Base

Start by transforming your Bourbon biscuits into fine crumbs—a quick blitz in a food processor works wonders, but a ziplock bag and rolling pin is just as satisfying. Pour in the melted butter and mix until every crumb gleams, then press this mixture firmly into your tart pan or springform tin. Take care to pack it down evenly, which gives you that classic, crisp slice later. Pop the tin in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the base set up and become beautifully firm.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat your soft cream cheese and caster sugar together until you have a glossy, lump-free mixture. Pour in the double cream little by little, whisking as you go—you’ll notice the filling fluffing up and thickening, promising plenty of cheesecake swoon-factor. If you’re going for that black forest liqueur twist, stir in your Kirsch at this stage. Spoon the creamy cloud over your chilled base, smoothing it out like frosting a cake, then let the cheesecake chill out in the fridge for at least four hours, or overnight for ultimate lusciousness.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

When your cheesecake is set, it’s time to pile on the fruit. In a mixing bowl, gently marry the black cherry filling with fresh blackberries and blueberries. A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of zest will bring tang and brightness, making the berries pop with flavor. Carefully spoon this jewel-bright mixture over your chilled cheesecake, letting it cascade to the edges for drama.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

For the all-important Black Forest flair, shower the berry layer with fragrant dark chocolate shavings. If you feel adventurous, melt the chocolate and flick it artfully over the top for a glossy, show-stopping finish. This simple touch transforms your No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake into a true centerpiece.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Run a warm knife around the inside edge of your tin to release your cheesecake masterpiece. Slide it onto a serving plate, then slice and serve while chilled. Every creamy, chocolatey, fruity forkful is pure joy!

How to Serve No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake

Garnishes

Take your No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake to the next level with creative garnishes. Try extra whole black cherries or maraschino cherries for a retro pop, fresh mint leaves for a touch of color, or even a sprinkle of edible gold dust for festive occasions. Each addition brings another layer of charm and flavor!

Side Dishes

This cheesecake is rich and satisfying on its own, but it shines with a few complementary sides. Think freshly whipped cream dolloped on each slice, a tangy raspberry coulis drizzled over the plate, or bowls of extra fresh berries on the table for guests to add as they wish. Even a hot cup of espresso alongside brings out the chocolate and fruit notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake looks spectacular in a classic round tin but you can easily turn it into individual desserts using mason jars or mini ramekins—just layer as you would in the full-size version. Or, make a dramatic trifle-inspired version in a large glass bowl, showing off all those distinct layers. However you serve it, let the colors and textures take center stage.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake holds up beautifully for up to 3 days in the fridge. Cover it well—either with a cake dome or a layer of plastic wrap—to keep it fresh and creamy. The flavors marry even more overnight, so a second-day slice is sometimes the best!

Freezing

Good news: you can freeze this cheesecake! Simply wrap the whole, un-topped cheesecake tightly in plastic and foil, or freeze individual slices. Add the berry topping and chocolate shavings only after thawing, to keep them fresh and glossy. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Since it’s a no-bake treat, there’s no need to reheat your No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake. Just serve it straight from the fridge, allowing it to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes if you prefer an extra creamy bite.

FAQs

Can I use other cookies for the base?

Absolutely! If you’re out of Bourbon biscuits, feel free to use Oreos, chocolate graham crackers, or even digestive biscuits with a tablespoon of cocoa powder. Just make sure you have that chocolatey foundation for full Black Forest effect.

Is it possible to make No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake without Kirsch?

Definitely—the Kirsch is completely optional. It adds a boozy, traditional note, but your cheesecake will be just as delightful and family-friendly without it. You can also try adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for a flavor twist.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Yes, you can create a gluten-free version by swapping the Bourbon biscuits for your favorite gluten-free chocolate cookies. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt for dietary needs.

How long does No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake need to chill?

Ideally, give your cheesecake at least 4 hours in the fridge, but overnight is even better for the best slice. This ensures the filling is firm enough to slice beautifully and hold up on the plate.

What’s the best way to slice and serve?

Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices. This helps you achieve those lovely, clean cuts through all three layers—so each piece looks as fabulous as it tastes!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress without the stress, this No-Bake Black Forest Cheesecake is your answer. It’s a dessert that’s as simple as it is stunning, and once you’ve tried that creamy filling with the tangy cherries and chocolate crunch, you’ll want to make it again and again. Give it a try, and watch your friends and family swoon—no oven required!