Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines rich chocolate, luscious strawberries, and indulgent cheesecake, this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is truly a dream come true. Each slice features tender strawberry slices nestled atop glossy chocolate ganache, sitting over a velvety smooth cheesecake filling—all on a crisp and buttery crust. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cheesecake brings together the best of classic flavors in one irresistible bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is a breeze, but each component is essential for building layers of flavor, color, and texture. Every ingredient plays a unique role, from the crunchy base to the creamy center, glossy chocolate, and fresh fruity topping.

• Graham cracker crumbs: These create a classic, sturdy base, but swap for chocolate wafer cookies for an even richer cocoa punch.
• Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps balance the tang of cream cheese and tartness of strawberries.
• Unsalted butter: Binds the crust together while adding salty-sweet flavor.
• Cream cheese: The star of any great cheesecake—softened for that dreamy, creamy consistency.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the filling with warm, aromatic flavor.
• Eggs: Adds richness and structure—add these one at a time for the perfect smooth texture.
• Sour cream: Delivers just enough tang to keep your cheesecake lush but light.
• Heavy cream: For both the filling and ganache, this amps up the silkiness.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted into ganache, these ensure a glossy, decadent chocolate layer.
• Fresh strawberries: Sweet, juicy bursts of color and flavor for the perfect finishing touch.
• Strawberry jam or preserves (optional): Brush a little on your strawberries for extra shine and an added pop of strawberry goodness.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, stir together your graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate wafer crumbs for extra depth) and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until it resembles wet sand. Firmly press everything into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s as even as possible—this will be the foundation holding up your cheesecake dreams! Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Grab your largest mixing bowl and beat the cream cheese and sugar using an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy—with no lumps, please! Mix in the vanilla extract for a boost of flavor, then add the eggs, one at a time, mixing just enough to incorporate. Finally, blend in the sour cream and heavy cream for unbeatable silkiness. Pour this luscious mixture over your cooled crust, spreading the top evenly for a smooth result.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Place your cheesecake in the center of the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look set but the very center has a slight jiggle. Don’t rush the next step: turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks. When it’s done, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to set perfectly.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

While your cheesecake chills, heat 1 cup of heavy cream in a saucepan just until it starts to simmer. Pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let it stand for a minute—it encourages the chocolate to melt gently. Stir until the mixture is glossy and completely smooth. Once it cools to room temperature and thickens a bit, pour over your chilled cheesecake, smoothing it out for that signature, beautiful ganache layer. Pop the cheesecake back in the fridge for 30 minutes to set the chocolate.

Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

Hull and slice those strawberries, arranging them so they’re ready to go on top. For a professional-looking finish, gently heat strawberry jam in a small pan until it’s liquid, then lightly brush it over your strawberry slices—this not only adds shine but an extra layer of strawberry flavor that looks and tastes decadent.

Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake

Now for the grand finale of your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe! Once the ganache is firm, carefully arrange your sliced strawberries on top—spiral, circular, random, it’s up to you. This is your moment to get artsy. Serve each chilled slice with pride, and watch the smiles appear.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

Amp up each slice of cheesecake with a swirl of whipped cream, a few mint leaves, or a drizzle of extra chocolate sauce. A handful of chopped chocolate or grated chocolate curls looks elegant and adds that irresistible bakery charm to your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe.

Side Dishes

Pair your cheesecake with light, fresh sides like a citrus fruit salad or a berry medley to cut through the richness. Want something special? Offer a glass of bubbly rosé or a hot espresso—these simple pairings highlight the decadent flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching twist, serve individual mini cheesecakes using a muffin tin, or make cheesecake bars for a shareable party dessert platter. You could even dip additional strawberries in chocolate and perch them artfully atop each slice for an extra flourish on your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator, where your cheesecake can remain fresh for up to 5 days. Because of the dairy and fruit, chilling is crucial for both flavor and food safety. Let each slice sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Freezing

If you need to prepare ahead, the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cheesecake (without the strawberry topping) tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months, thawing in the fridge overnight before adding the ganache and fresh strawberries.

Reheating

While cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, bring to cool room temperature for 20 minutes to enjoy its full flavor and creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may melt the ganache and change the texture of the strawberries.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and appearance, but if unavailable, thawed frozen strawberries can be used for the topping. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly so they don’t make the cheesecake watery.

What’s the best way to prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Cracks are often caused by over-mixing or rapid temperature changes. Always mix eggs in gently, avoid over-beating the batter, and let the cheesecake cool gradually inside the oven before moving it to the fridge.

Can I make this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the graham crackers or chocolate wafers for your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs—they work just as well and taste amazing.

Do I need a water bath for this cheesecake?

A water bath isn’t strictly necessary for this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe, especially with the gradual cooling method, but it can help ensure an extra smooth, creamy bake if you want to go the extra mile.

Can I prepare the ganache and strawberries in advance?

Yes, you can make the ganache ahead and keep it at room temperature for a few hours or in the fridge overnight. For strawberries, slice and glaze them right before serving to keep them looking and tasting fresh.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made a cheesecake from scratch, this is the perfect Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe to jump in and try. Whether it’s for a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or just because, every bite is guaranteed to turn an everyday moment into something special. Give it a try and enjoy the magic of chocolate, strawberries, and creamy cheesecake all in one glorious slice!

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