If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the luscious flavors of a classic Black Forest cake but want something quick, easy, and fuss-free, this No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe is your ticket to dessert heaven. Layer by satisfying layer, it brings together a crunchy chocolate cookie base, a jewel-toned cherry filling, and a rich, glossy chocolate ganache, all topped with a cloud of whipped cream and optional fresh cherries. This slice is not only stunning to behold but also a delightful explosion of textures and tastes that will impress everyone at your table without turning on the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that together create a mesmerizing dessert. Each component plays a key role, from the buttery chocolate cookie crust to the velvety ganache and the bright burst of cherry filling, making every bite perfectly balanced and irresistibly crave-worthy.
- 200g chocolate cookies or chocolate graham crackers, crushed: The base of your slice, providing essential crunch and rich cocoa flavor.
- 100g unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together for a sturdy yet tender crust.
- 400g canned cherry pie filling: Adds a sweet and slightly tart fruit layer that cuts through the richness.
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped: The star of the ganache, bringing deep, intense chocolate notes.
- 200ml heavy cream: Creates the silky texture necessary to melt the chocolate into a smooth ganache.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate’s flavor with warm, aromatic undertones.
- 200ml whipped cream, for topping: A light and fluffy finishing touch that balances the dense layers beneath.
- Chocolate shavings and fresh cherries, for garnish (optional): Adds visual appeal and extra bursts of flavor.
How to Make No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by lining an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper—this helps release the slice easily once set. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed chocolate cookies with melted unsalted butter, mixing until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the base of the pan to form a solid crust. Pop it into the refrigerator for a bit so it chills and firms up while you prepare the other layers.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Next, gently warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it just reaches a simmer—no boiling needed. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, letting it sit for 1 to 2 minutes to soften. Then, stir slowly until the mixture becomes smooth, shiny, and luxuriously thick. Finish this step by stirring in the vanilla extract, which adds that perfect depth and warmth to the chocolate.
Step 3: Layer the Cherry Filling and Ganache
Take your chilled crust out of the fridge and spread half of the cherry pie filling evenly over it. This bright red layer not only looks stunning but delivers a juicy sweetness and tartness that contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate ganache you’ll pour on next. Carefully pour the ganache over the cherry filling, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Return the pan to the fridge and let it set for 1 to 2 hours until wonderfully firm.
Step 4: Add the Whipped Cream and Final Cherry Layer
Once your ganache has set, spread the whipped cream on top in an even layer, creating a soft, pillowy cap. Take the remaining cherry pie filling and spoon it on top of the whipped cream, swirling it gently for a marbled effect that makes the slice look extra inviting. For the finishing touch, garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if you’re feeling fancy. Chill the entire slice until you’re ready to serve, then cut into squares for irresistible, elegant portions.
How to Serve No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes can elevate your slice from simple to spectacular. Chocolate shavings add an elegant texture and a touch of bittersweet flavor, while fresh cherries bring vibrant color and a juicy freshness that echoes the cherry filling inside. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a few mint leaves can also add flair and a refreshing note.
Side Dishes
This No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe is rich and decadent enough to stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a dollop of fresh whipped cream for extra indulgence. If you’d like something lighter, a crisp cup of black coffee or a fruity herbal tea makes a lovely contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow your guests, serve these slices on a decorative platter arranged with fresh cherries and sprigs of mint or place each slice on individual plates garnished with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a special occasion, place slices inside glass jars layered with extra cherry filling and whipped cream to create portable parfaits inspired by the slice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover slices covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The layers will maintain their texture and flavor for up to 3 days, making this a perfect dessert to enjoy over a few days or share with friends and family.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe well ahead of time, freezing works beautifully. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep fresh and tasty for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to retain their creamy textures.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake dessert, reheating is generally not recommended as it will melt the whipped cream and soften the crust. Instead, allow frozen slices to thaw gently in the fridge and serve chilled for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely, fresh cherries can be used but be sure to cook them down slightly to create a thickened cherry compote that won’t make the slice soggy. This swap can add a lovely homemade touch but requires a bit more preparation time.
What kind of chocolate works best for the ganache?
For a rich and authentic flavor, use good-quality dark chocolate with around 60-70% cocoa content. Avoid chocolate chips as they often contain stabilizers that can affect the smoothness of the ganache.
Can I make this slice vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a vegan alternative, use a plant-based heavy cream substitute for making the ganache, and top with coconut whipped cream or another dairy-free whipped topping. Choose vegan dark chocolate to complete the adaptation.
How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Press the crust firmly and chill it well before adding the wet cherry filling. Also, spreading a thin layer of melted chocolate over the crust before adding the cherries can create a moisture barrier to keep the base crisp.
Is this slice suitable for kids?
Yes! The No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe is kid-friendly, combining familiar flavors like chocolate and cherries. Just ensure the chopped dark chocolate is of mild enough intensity or consider using a semi-sweet chocolate for a less intense taste.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend this No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe enough—it’s a dessert that feels special but is totally effortless to pull together. Whether you make it for a casual afternoon treat or a festive celebration, it always delivers smiles and requests for seconds. So grab your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this heavenly, chocolaty cherry slice made without heating up your kitchen!
Print
No-Bake Black Forest Slice Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 9 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Black Forest Slice is a luscious, layered dessert combining a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, rich cherry pie filling, silky dark chocolate ganache, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. Perfectly chilled and easy to prepare without an oven, this decadent treat captures the classic flavors of Black Forest cake in convenient bar form.
Ingredients
Crust
- 200g chocolate cookies or chocolate graham crackers, crushed
- 100g unsalted butter, melted
Filling and Ganache
- 400g canned cherry pie filling
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 200ml heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping and Garnish
- 200ml whipped cream, for topping
- Chocolate shavings and fresh cherries, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cookies and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the base of the pan to form an even crust. Refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
- Make the chocolate ganache: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream until just simmering, then remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the layers: Spread half of the cherry pie filling over the chilled crust. Pour the chocolate ganache over the cherry layer and smooth the top. Chill for 1–2 hours until set.
- Add the topping: Once firm, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top. Spoon or swirl the remaining cherry pie filling on top.
- Garnish and serve: Decorate with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries if desired. Chill until ready to serve, then slice into squares.
Notes
- For a crunchier base, use chocolate digestives or add crushed nuts.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be made a day ahead.
