Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries

Picture yourself creating a luxurious treat that fuses the vibrant sweetness of ripe strawberries with the creamy allure of cheesecake, all cloaked in rich chocolate.

Imagine the satisfaction as you hollow out each berry, fill it with a luscious cream cheese blend, and then dip it into silky melted chocolate.

Intrigued by the thought of presenting such a delightful dessert at your next gathering?

There’s more to discover in perfecting this indulgence.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 mixing bowl
• 1 hand mixer
• 1 small saucepan
• 1 heatproof bowl
• 1 baking sheet
• 1 parchment paper
• 1 spoon
• 1 piping bag

Ingredients

• 24 whole strawberries
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries, follow the timeline below.

This plan includes additional time for reading the recipe and gathering ingredients:

1. Reading and Gathering Ingredients:
   • Allocate 10 minutes to thoroughly read the recipe and gather all the necessary equipment and ingredients.
2. Prep Work:
   • Wash and Dry Strawberries: 5 minutes
   • Prepare Cheesecake Filling:
   • Beat cream cheese until smooth: 5 minutes
   • Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mix until combined: 3 minutes
   • Transfer Filling:
   • Transfer cheesecake mixture into a piping bag: 2 minutes
   • Pipe Filling into Strawberries: 5 minutes
3. Chocolate Melting and Coating:
   • Set up Double Boiler:
   • Bring water to simmer in a small saucepan: 5 minutes
   • Melt Chocolate:
   • Stir chocolate chips and coconut oil until smooth: 5 minutes
   • Dip Strawberries: 5 minutes
4. Add Graham Cracker Crumbs:
   • Sprinkle over the strawberries before chocolate sets: 3 minutes
5. Resting Time for Chocolate to Set:
   • Allow strawberries to rest and chocolate to harden: 30 minutes

Total Time: 78 minutes

This timeline guarantees you have ample time for each step, from preparation to resting time, while also considering the time needed to read and prepare for the process.

Recipe Instructions

Wash and dry the strawberries, then remove the stems.

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.

Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and mix until combined.

Transfer the cheesecake mixture into a piping bag.

Pipe the cheesecake filling into the hollowed center of each strawberry.

In a small saucepan, bring water to a simmer and place a heatproof bowl on top.

Add chocolate chips and coconut oil to the bowl and stir until melted and smooth.

Dip each filled strawberry into the melted chocolate, ensuring an even coat.

Place chocolate-covered strawberries onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the chocolate before it sets.

Allow the strawberries to rest for 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.

Serving Tips

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for extra creaminess and visual appeal.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a rejuvenating contrast.
• Chilled Champagne: Pair with a glass of chilled champagne for a luxurious dessert experience.
• Crushed Nuts: Sprinkle crushed nuts like almonds or pistachios for added texture and flavor.
• Berry Compote: Serve alongside a berry compote to enhance the fruity flavors of the strawberries.

Storage

Store Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Avoid stacking to prevent smudging the chocolate or damaging the cheesecake filling.

Freezing

To freeze Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries, first let the chocolate fully harden.

Arrange them on a baking sheet.

Freeze individually.

Then store in an airtight container for up to one month.

Reheating

Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries shouldn’t be reheated as heating can cause the cheesecake filling to melt and the chocolate to become uneven or lose its firmness.

Enjoy them chilled.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Strawberries are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries and the indulgence of chocolate.

They’re relatively simple to make, requiring no baking, and can be prepared in about an hour, including resting time.

For the best results, select ripe but firm strawberries to guarantee the filling stays intact without any juice leakage.

If you prefer a slightly less sweet filling, you can adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste.

Be cautious when melting the chocolate to avoid overheating, which can cause it to seize.

These treats are perfect for special occasions or a sweet indulgence at home. Enjoy the blend of textures and flavors in every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Vegan Cream Cheese for a Dairy-Free Version?

Yes, you can use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing. Adjust sweetness by tasting as you mix, since vegan options may differ slightly in flavor and texture from regular cream cheese.

What Type of Chocolate Is Best for Dipping?

You should choose high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for dipping. They provide a rich flavor and smooth texture. Make sure you melt it gently to avoid seizing, and add a little coconut oil for a glossy finish.

How Do I Prevent the Chocolate From Cracking?

To prevent cracking, guarantee the chocolate cools slightly before dipping. Maintain consistent room temperature and avoid sudden temperature changes. Gently tap the dipped strawberries to remove excess chocolate, then let them set at room temperature.

Can I Add a Different Flavor to the Cheesecake Filling?

Absolutely, you can add different flavors to the cheesecake filling! Consider mixing in lemon zest, almond extract, or a bit of cocoa powder. Adjust the amount to taste, ensuring it complements the overall dessert profile.

Are There Any Alternative Toppings to Graham Cracker Crumbs?

You can sprinkle crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or toffee bits over the chocolate. Try colorful sprinkles or drizzle white chocolate for a decorative touch. Each topping adds a unique texture and flavor to your dessert.