How to Make a Delicious Black Forest No-Bake Cheesecake

Indulge in the decadence of a classic Black Forest dessert with a healthier twist: Black Forest No-Bake Cheesecake. This recipe marries the rich flavors of chocolate, cherries, and creamy cheesecake into a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious—all while keeping it Weight Watchers-friendly. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake treat is simple to make, satisfying, and guilt-free.

Ingredients

Crust

• 1 cup chocolate graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons light butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (or a sugar substitute like Stevia)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup light whipped topping

Cherry Topping

• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or a sugar substitute)

Optional Garnish

• Shaved dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips
• Light whipped topping

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
3. Refrigerate the crust for 15-20 minutes to set while preparing the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cocoa powder. Beat until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the light whipped topping until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
4. Spread the filling evenly over the prepared crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Prepare the Cherry Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine cherries, cornstarch, water, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Allow the cherry topping to cool slightly before spreading it over the cheesecake layer.

Chill and Serve

1. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
2. Just before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping, shaved chocolate, or mini chocolate chips if desired.
3. Slice into 8 portions and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving: 1 slice)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• WW Points: ~4-6 (varies based on ingredients)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. No Oven Required: A simple no-bake dessert perfect for warm days or when you’re short on time.
2. Rich and Creamy: The lightened-up cheesecake filling is indulgent without being heavy.
3. Classic Flavor Combo: Chocolate and cherry create a nostalgic dessert everyone will love.
4. Weight Watchers Friendly: Designed to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on plan.

Tips for Success

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies or crackers for the crust.
• Use Fresh Cherries When in Season: They add vibrant flavor, but frozen cherries work just as well.
• Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sugar or substitute it with your preferred sweetener to match your taste and plan requirements.
• Layer for Elegance: For a fancy presentation, layer the crust, cheesecake, and cherry topping in individual dessert glasses.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm cup of Weight Watchers-friendly hot cocoa or black coffee.
• Serve as a standout dessert at a holiday gathering, birthday, or romantic dinner.

This Black Forest No-Bake Cheesecake delivers the perfect combination of indulgence and balance. With its luscious chocolatey base, creamy filling, and tart cherry topping, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re treating yourself or