Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries Recipe

If you love chocolate-covered strawberries and cheesecake, this recipe combines both into an irresistible, indulgent treat. These Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries are perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, holidays, or whenever you crave a deliciously decadent dessert. Each bite-sized strawberry is filled with creamy cheesecake and coated in rich chocolate, making them a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that everyone will adore.

Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries bring together two dessert classics in a single, bite-sized delight. These treats feature fresh, juicy strawberries filled with a smooth cheesecake mixture and dipped in a luxurious chocolate coating. Perfect for sharing, they’re a visually stunning dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has everything a dessert lover could ask for: a mix of fresh fruit, creamy cheesecake, and a chocolate shell that provides a satisfying crunch. Not only are these treats delicious, but they’re also customizable, making them a fantastic option for parties, romantic dinners, or special celebrations.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Preparing the Cheesecake Filling

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. This makes it easier to whip and prevents lumps.
2. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until it’s light and smooth.
3. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. The filling should be creamy and smooth.

Preparing the Strawberries

1. Wash and Dry the Strawberries: Rinse strawberries under cold water and pat them completely dry with a paper towel. Moisture can prevent the chocolate from sticking, so ensure they are thoroughly dry.
2. Core the Strawberries: Using a paring knife, cut out the tops of the strawberries, creating a small hole for the cheesecake filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through to keep the filling from spilling out.

Filling and Coating the Strawberries

1. Fill the Strawberries: Transfer the cheesecake mixture into a piping bag (or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off). Pipe the filling into each strawberry, filling the hollowed space generously.
2. Prepare the Chocolate for Dipping: Melt your chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a teaspoon of coconut oil or butter to achieve a smooth, shiny finish.
3. Dip the Strawberries: Hold each filled strawberry by the green leaves and dip it into the melted chocolate, covering the bottom and sides. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
4. Place on Parchment Paper: Place each chocolate-covered strawberry on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.

Chocolate Dipping Tips

1. Maintain Chocolate Temperature: If the chocolate starts to harden while dipping, warm it gently again.
2. Coating Consistency: Ensure an even chocolate coating by gently rotating each strawberry as you dip.
3. Cooling Time: Allow the chocolate to set for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature or place them in the fridge for quicker setting.

Decoration Ideas

Here are some fun ideas for decorating your cheesecake-filled strawberries:

• Drizzle with White Chocolate: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the strawberries after the main chocolate coating has set.
• Add Graham Cracker Crumbs: For a classic cheesecake twist, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the cheesecake filling before dipping.
• Sprinkles or Nuts: Add colored sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible glitter for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these strawberries chilled on a decorative platter. For a special touch, arrange them in rows or a circular pattern and add fresh mint leaves as a garnish. They make an impressive addition to dessert tables at events, especially when arranged on tiered trays or alongside other chocolate-dipped treats.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Strawberries

• Use Fresh, Large Strawberries: Bigger strawberries are easier to fill and dip, giving the best presentation and flavor.
• Pat Strawberries Dry: Any moisture on the strawberries will prevent the chocolate from adhering properly, so make sure they are completely dry.
• Don’t Overfill: Be mindful not to overfill the strawberries with cheesecake, as it can spill out during dipping.

Storing and Freezing

• Storing: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be cautious about moisture, as it can make the chocolate coating sticky.
• Freezing: These treats can be frozen, though the texture of the chocolate may change slightly. Freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a container. Allow them to thaw slightly before serving for the best texture.

Recipe Variations

1. Mint Chocolate Cheesecake Strawberries: Add a drop of mint extract to the cheesecake filling and use dark chocolate for a refreshing flavor.
2. Peanut Butter Cheesecake Strawberries: Swirl a spoonful of peanut butter into the cheesecake mixture for a nutty twist.
3. Strawberry Shortcake Flavor: Add finely crushed freeze-dried strawberries into the cheesecake filling for an extra burst of berry flavor.
4. Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt: After dipping, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each chocolate-coated strawberry for a sophisticated flavor contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes, flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or vanilla, adds a nice twist. Just keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.

Q2: Can I make these strawberries ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, but be aware that strawberries are best enjoyed fresh.

Q3: What type of chocolate is best for dipping?

High-quality chocolate chips or baking chocolate work well. Avoid using chocolate with a low cocoa content, as it might not set properly.

Q4: Can I add other fillings to the cheesecake mixture?

Yes, feel free to mix in fruit preserves, caramel, or even cookie crumbs for different flavors.

Q5: How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?

Ensure that the strawberries are at room temperature before dipping to help prevent chocolate cracking when they are chilled.

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries are a delightful fusion of two classic desserts that deliver the best of both worlds: creamy, rich cheesecake and fresh strawberries, all encased in a smooth chocolate shell. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re in need of a sweet treat, this recipe is easy to make and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Follow these steps and tips to create a dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful bites!

Yield: 20 Strawberries

Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries Recipe

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If you love chocolate-covered strawberries and cheesecake, this recipe combines both into an irresistible, indulgent treat. These Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries are perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, holidays, or whenever you crave a deliciously decadent dessert. Each bite-sized strawberry is filled with creamy cheesecake and coated in rich chocolate, making them a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that everyone will adore.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Chill Time 1 hour

Ingredients

• 20 fresh strawberries, washed and dried
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for a smoother chocolate coating)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries:
   Cut off the tops of the strawberries and hollow out a small portion of each center to make room for the cheesecake filling. Set aside.
   
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spoon the cheesecake mixture into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.
   
3. Fill the Strawberries:
   Pipe the cheesecake filling into the hollowed-out strawberries, filling them generously.
   
4. Coat in Graham Cracker Crumbs:
   Gently dip the tops of the filled strawberries into the graham cracker crumbs, pressing slightly to adhere.
   
5. Melt the Chocolate:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
   
6. Dip the Strawberries in Chocolate:
   Hold each strawberry by the stem or the base and dip the cheesecake-filled end into the melted chocolate, letting any excess chocolate drip off. Place the dipped strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   
7. Chill:
   Refrigerate the strawberries for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is set.
   
8. Serve:
   Once the chocolate is firm, transfer the strawberries to a serving plate and enjoy!

Notes

• Make It Fancy: Drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with crushed nuts for an added touch.
• Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Quick Tip: Ensure the strawberries are fully dry before filling to help the chocolate adhere properly.