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Koblenz German cherry cheesecake with Quark, black cherry fruit spread, fresh cherries, and whipped cream

Koblenz Cherry Cream Cheese Cake

This Koblenz Cherry Cream Cheese Cake is a German-style cherry cheesecake made with a tender cake base, creamy Quark or cream cheese filling, black cherry fruit spread, and fresh sweet cherries or Morello cherries. Serve it completely cooled with whipped cream for Kaffee und Kuchen, summer parties, or a special dessert table.

Ingredients

Cake Layer

Cheesecake Layer

  • 1 cup Quark room temperature (or ¾ cup cream cheese with ¼ cup whipping cream)
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 egg

Cake Topping

Instructions

  • Bring eggs, butter and Quark to room temperature (2-3 hours).
  • Preheat oven to 350° F.
  • Grease 9-10 inch springform pan.
  • Prepare cake layer by creaming together butter and ⅔ cup sugar until well combined. Add 2 eggs, beating well. Add flour, baking powder, and salt, beating well to combine. Pour into springform pan, pushing batter up the sides of the pan slightly to create a crust.
  • Prepare cheesecake layer by creaming together Quark and ½ cup sugar until well combined. Add egg, beating thoroughly (about 3 minutes). Pour cheesecake layer into the pan, keeping the cheesecake layer contained by the cake crust.
  • Drop the Maintal Fruit Spread over the cheesecake layer by small spoonfuls. The fruit spread will not completely cover the cheesecake layer, so try to space it out evenly.
  • Arrange the fresh cherries on top in three concentric circles, starting at the outside edge and working towards the center. The very center will be clear of cherries to make the cake easier to cut.
  • Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edge of the cake is firm and starting to brown. The center of the cake will be a little loose but will continue cooking as it cools. Cool cake completely in the springform. When cool, run a thin silicone or rubber spatula around the side to loosen the cake from the pan, then pop the springform. Serve with whipped cream, if desired.

Notes

Sweet Cherries vs. Morello Cherries

Fresh sweet cherries give this cake a juicy, summery flavor and a naturally sweet finish. They are a great choice when cherries are in season and you want a bright, fresh dessert for warm-weather gatherings.
Morello cherries have a tarter flavor and bring a more traditional German bakery taste to the cake. Their acidity balances the creamy filling and the sweetness of the fruit spread beautifully. If using jarred Morello cherries, drain them very well before adding them to the cake.
Both options work well. Sweet cherries create a softer, fruitier flavor, while Morello cherries make the cake more tangy and classic. You can also use a mix of both for a balanced cherry topping.

How to Keep Cherries from Sinking

Cherries can sink into the filling if they are very juicy or wet. To help prevent this, pat the cherries dry before placing them on top of the cake. If using jarred Morello cherries, drain them thoroughly and blot them gently with a paper towel.
For extra help, toss the cherries lightly with a teaspoon or two of flour before arranging them over the filling. This gives the fruit a little grip and helps it stay closer to the surface as the cake bakes.
It also helps to place the cherries gently on top rather than pressing them into the filling. The cake will still bake beautifully if some cherries sink slightly, but these steps help create a more even, attractive top.

What to Serve with Koblenz Cherry Cream Cheese Cake

Koblenz Cherry Cream Cheese Cake is best served completely cooled. For a firmer cheesecake texture, chill it before slicing. A spoonful of whipped cream makes a simple and classic topping.
This cake pairs beautifully with hot coffee, black tea, German iced coffee, or a glass of sparkling wine for a celebration. For an extra dessert-style plate, serve it with fresh cherries, chocolate shavings, vanilla ice cream, or a small spoonful of cherry compote.
For Kaffee und Kuchen, keep the serving simple: a slice of cake, a cup of coffee, and perhaps a little whipped cream on the side. The cake already has enough fruit and creaminess to stand on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Koblenz Cherry Cream Cheese Cake?

Koblenz Cherry Cream Cheese Cake is a German-style cherry cheesecake made with a soft cake base, creamy Quark or cream cheese filling, black cherry fruit spread, and fresh cherries or Morello cherries.

Can I use cream cheese instead of Quark?

Yes. If Quark is not available, use cream cheese mixed with a little whipping cream. This creates a smoother, softer texture that works well in the filling.

Can I use Morello cherries?

Yes. Morello cherries are a great choice for this cake because their tart flavor balances the creamy filling and sweet cherry fruit spread. Drain jarred Morello cherries well before using.

Why did my cherries sink?

Cherries may sink if they are too wet or if the filling is very soft. Pat the cherries dry and toss them lightly with a little flour before placing them on top of the cake.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The edges should be firm and lightly golden. The center may still look slightly soft, but it will continue to set as the cake cools.

Should this cake be served warm or chilled?

This cake should be served completely cooled. For cleaner slices and a firmer texture, chill it before serving.
Course: Dessert
Keyword: Baking, Cake, cheese cake, Cherry, Maintal