Oh my goodness, let me tell you why chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake holds a special place in my heart! This luscious dessert combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the fresh, vibrant flavor of strawberries, all wrapped up in a decadent layer of rich chocolate. Seriously, it’s like a party in your mouth! I remember the first time I made it for a gathering; everyone went absolutely crazy over it! It’s such a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to cozy movie nights. Plus, who can resist that gorgeous sight of fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate sitting atop a creamy cheesecake? Trust me, once you try this chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These will form the delicious crust, bringing that classic cheesecake flavor.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Just a bit of sweetness to enhance the crust.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: This binds the crust together and adds richness.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the show! Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup sugar: For the cheesecake filling, giving it that perfect sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- 4 eggs: These add structure and creaminess to the filling.
- 1 cup sour cream: For that rich, tangy flavor that makes cheesecake irresistible.
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed: This gives the cheesecake a fresh strawberry flavor that’s simply divine!
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted: This will be used to dip the strawberries, adding that indulgent chocolatey touch.
- Fresh strawberries for topping: You can’t have chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake without these beauties on top!
How to Prepare Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Preheating is super important because it gets everything cozy and ready for baking, ensuring that your cheesecake cooks evenly. So, don’t skip this step!
Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. It should look like wet sand! Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan, making sure it’s even. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down. This crust is the foundation of your cheesecake, so make it sturdy!
Make the Cheesecake Filling
Next, in a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s super smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate air, making your cheesecake light and fluffy. Finally, gently fold in the sour cream and strawberry puree until just combined. This is where the magic happens!
Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over your prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—don’t worry, it’ll firm up as it cools!
Cool and Chill
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for a bit, then transfer it to the fridge. I recommend chilling it for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This helps develop that rich, creamy texture we all love.
Prepare Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Now for the fun part—let’s make those chocolate dipped strawberries! Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. Then, take your fresh strawberries, dip them into the melted chocolate, and place them on a parchment-lined plate to set. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, arrange these gorgeous chocolate-covered strawberries on top for a stunning finish!
Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps everything blend together smoothly without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake.
- Check for Doneness: Remember, the cheesecake should have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out of the oven. It’ll firm up as it cools!
- Chill Overnight: For the best flavor and texture, chill your cheesecake overnight. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: For the topping, always opt for fresh strawberries. They bring a burst of flavor and look absolutely stunning!
- Protect From Cracking: If you’re worried about cracks, you can place a shallow pan of water in the oven while baking. This adds moisture and can help prevent cracking.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick rundown of the typical nutritional values for a slice of this delectable chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 5g
This cheesecake is rich and indulgent, making it a perfect treat for special occasions. Enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen strawberries for the puree?
While fresh strawberries are best for flavor, you can absolutely use frozen strawberries if that’s what you have on hand! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before pureeing to avoid excess moisture.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
To keep your cheesecake smooth and crack-free, avoid overmixing the batter, and remember to bake it at a lower temperature. Plus, allowing it to cool slowly in the oven (by leaving the door ajar) can help too!
Can I make the cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake is perfect for making a day or two in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge and add the chocolate dipped strawberries right before serving for a fresh touch!
What can I serve with chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake?
This cheesecake is already a showstopper, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!
How long will leftovers last?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep those chocolate dipped strawberries separate until you’re ready to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and rich chocolate creates an explosion of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Impressive Presentation: With those beautiful chocolate dipped strawberries on top, this cheesecake is a showstopper that’s sure to wow your friends and family.
- Easy to Make: Don’t worry if you’re not a pro in the kitchen; this recipe is straightforward and perfect for even beginner bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just because, this cheesecake fits right in and always brings smiles.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can whip it up a day or two in advance, making it a stress-free dessert option for entertaining.
- Customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors or toppings—add a swirl of chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for extra flair!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake experience, consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream—seriously, it adds such a light, airy touch! Drizzling some chocolate sauce or a berry compote over each slice not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a gorgeous presentation. And for those who crave a little extra indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is heavenly! Pairing it with a cup of coffee or a fruity herbal tea can also balance the richness beautifully. Enjoy every bite!
For more delicious cheesecake recipes, check out Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake or Chocolate Cake with Strawberries.
Print
Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake: 5 Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake that combines creamy cheesecake with fresh strawberries and rich chocolate.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- Fresh strawberries for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a mixer until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in sour cream and strawberry puree.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set.
- Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Dip fresh strawberries in melted chocolate and place on top of the cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Chill the cheesecake overnight for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chocolate dipped strawberry cheesecake, cheesecake recipe, dessert recipe
