No-Bake Black Forest Slice

Craving a rich, indulgent dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to eat? Well, the No-Bake Black Forest Slice is just what you need! Imagine layers of sweet, tangy cherries, velvety chocolate, and a creamy, dreamy filling—all without ever having to turn on the oven. It’s like your favorite Black Forest cake, but in slice form and way easier to put together. Plus, no baking means it’s perfect for those lazy days or when you want something decadent without the fuss. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love No-Bake Black Forest Slice

Decadent and Rich:

This dessert is pure indulgence. The layers of creamy filling and chocolate come together with the burst of juicy cherries for a treat that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Quick and Easy:

No need for oven time, no complicated techniques—just a few simple steps and you’ll have a dessert that looks like it came from a bakery. It’s perfect for when you want something special but don’t have the time to spend hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or just treating yourself on a weekend, this slice fits every occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and everyone will be asking for the recipe.

No-Bake Perfection:

Sometimes you just want a dessert that doesn’t require all the effort of baking. This no-bake slice is perfect for those moments when you’re craving something sweet, but want to keep things simple.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this indulgent slice to life:

• Chocolate Biscuits (or Graham Crackers): These create a rich, chocolatey base that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
• Butter: This binds the biscuit base together while adding richness.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Gives the filling that creamy, luscious texture.
• Cream Cheese: Adds to the creamy base, giving it a smooth consistency.
• Whipped Cream: Lightens the filling, making it airy and fluffy.
• Cocoa Powder: Enhances the chocolate flavor in the filling and base.
• Cherries (fresh or jarred): For that classic Black Forest flavor. You’ll use them both in the filling and as a topping.
• Chocolate Chips or Grated Chocolate: For the finishing touch, adding extra chocolatey goodness to the slice.

(Note: Exact measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Ready to make a dessert that will impress with minimal effort? Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by crushing the chocolate biscuits (or graham crackers) into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place them in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Melt the butter and combine it with the biscuit crumbs. Press this mixture into the base of a lined baking pan, ensuring it’s packed down tightly. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to let the base set.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, cream cheese, and cocoa powder. Mix until smooth. Fold in the whipped cream gently, being careful not to deflate it. Once combined, add in half of the cherries (chopped if using whole ones) and stir until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble the Slice

Once the biscuit base has chilled and set, spread the chocolatey cherry filling evenly over the base. Use a spatula to smooth it out. Top with the remaining cherries (whole or chopped) and sprinkle the chocolate chips or grated chocolate over the top for an extra decadent finish. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or until the slice is firm and fully set.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

After the slice has chilled and set, cut it into squares or bars. Serve chilled, and enjoy the perfect balance of rich chocolate, creamy filling, and tangy cherries!

How to Serve No-Bake Black Forest Slice

• Garnished with Extra Whipped Cream: For that extra indulgent touch, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry.
• With a Hot Beverage: Enjoy it with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a rich dessert wine for the ultimate treat.
• As Part of a Dessert Platter: This slice pairs perfectly with other no-bake desserts like cheesecake or fruit tarts for a well-rounded dessert spread.

Additional Tips

Switch Up the Base:

If you want to get creative, you can swap out the chocolate biscuits for regular graham crackers, or even use chocolate cake crumbs for a richer flavor.

Use Fresh or Jarred Cherries:

Both work wonderfully in this recipe! Fresh cherries give a juicy, natural flavor, while jarred cherries bring that signature Black Forest sweetness.

Make Ahead:

This slice is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it a day or two before serving, and it will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors just get better as it sits!

Try Adding Nuts:

For a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or almonds on top of the slice along with the chocolate chips.

Vegan Version:

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the cream cheese and whipped cream with plant-based alternatives, and use dairy-free biscuits for the base.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 250
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of biscuit for the base?

A1: Absolutely! You can use regular graham crackers, shortbread, or even chocolate wafer biscuits for a different flavor.

Q2: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh or jarred cherries?

A2: Yes! Frozen cherries work well too, just make sure to thaw them and drain off any excess liquid before using.

Q3: Can I freeze the No-Bake Black Forest Slice?

A3: Yes! This slice freezes beautifully. Just wrap it in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This slice is best enjoyed chilled!

Q5: Can I make this slice ahead of time?

A5: Yes! This dessert is perfect for making ahead. Just prepare it the day before, and let it chill overnight for the best results.

Q6: Can I make the filling without cream cheese?

A6: You can! If you don’t have cream cheese, try using Greek yogurt or a thick, dairy-free yogurt substitute for a lighter filling.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A7: If you use gluten-free biscuits, this recipe can be made gluten-free! Be sure to check the label of the biscuits to make sure they are certified gluten-free.

Q8: Can I add a little alcohol to the filling?

A8: Sure! A splash of Kirsch (a cherry liqueur) or a bit of rum can add an adult twist to the Black Forest flavor. Just a tablespoon or two should do the trick!

Q9: How do I know when the slice is ready to serve?

A9: After chilling for 3-4 hours, the slice should be firm to the touch and easy to cut into squares. If it feels too soft, give it more time to set in the fridge.

Q10: Can I make a larger batch of this recipe?

A10: Yes! You can double the recipe and make a larger batch, just use a bigger pan and adjust the chilling time accordingly.

Conclusion

The No-Bake Black Forest Slice is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the rich, indulgent flavors of Black Forest cake but doesn’t want to deal with baking. With its creamy filling, crunchy chocolate base, and sweet cherry topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself. So grab your ingredients, chill out, and let this easy, no-bake slice become your new favorite dessert!

Print