Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this cheesecake because it brings together the classic pairing of strawberries and chocolate in a luxurious form. The strawberry flavor shines through in the creamy filling, complemented by the crunch of the chocolate crust and the smoothness of the ganache. It’s perfect for special occasions or when I want to treat myself to something indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chocolate cookie crumbs

• Unsalted butter

• Cream cheese

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Sour cream

• Strawberry puree

• Vanilla extract

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips

• Heavy cream

• Fresh strawberries

Directions

1. Prepare the crust: I mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter and press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Then, I bake it for about 10 minutes and let it cool.

2. Make the filling: I beat the cream cheese until smooth, add sugar, and then mix in the eggs one at a time. After that, I incorporate sour cream, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

3. Bake the cheesecake: I pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake it in a preheated oven. Once baked, I let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating it for several hours or overnight.

4. Prepare the ganache: I heat heavy cream until it’s just about to boil, then pour it over the chocolate chips. After letting it sit for a minute, I stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.

5. Assemble the cheesecake: I pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly. Then, I decorate the top with fresh strawberries, some of which I dip in melted chocolate beforehand.

Servings and Timing

This cheesecake serves 12 people. The preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with a baking time of about 1 hour. After baking, I recommend chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure it sets properly.

Variations

• No-Bake Version: For a quicker option, I sometimes make a no-bake version by using gelatin to set the filling instead of baking it.

• Different Fruits: While strawberries are classic, I’ve also tried this recipe with raspberries or blueberries for a different twist.

• White Chocolate Ganache: For a sweeter topping, I occasionally use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate for the ganache.

Storage and Reheating

I store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. Since it’s a chilled dessert, there’s no need to reheat it. If I want to freeze it, I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Before serving, I thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

FAQs

How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To prevent cracks, I make sure not to overmix the batter, especially after adding the eggs. I also bake the cheesecake in a water bath and let it cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?

Yes, I can use frozen strawberries. I thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before pureeing to ensure the consistency of the filling isn’t affected.

What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?

I prefer using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips or bars for a rich flavor. However, milk or dark chocolate can also be used based on personal preference.

How do I dip strawberries in chocolate?

I melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, dip the strawberries into the chocolate, and place them on parchment paper to set. Sometimes, I drizzle white chocolate over them for decoration.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often make it a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set properly.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that impresses every time. The combination of creamy strawberry filling, rich chocolate ganache, and fresh strawberries creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful treat, this cheesecake is sure to please.

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