Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert that combines two timeless flavors into one decadent treat. This show-stopping cheesecake features a creamy chocolate filling, a buttery chocolate cookie crust, and a luscious strawberry topping that’s both sweet and tangy. Perfect for celebrations, romantic dinners, or simply treating yourself, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser. While it looks and tastes like something you’d find at a fancy bakery, it’s surprisingly simple to make at home with a few basic ingredients and some patience. The rich, chocolatey flavor pairs beautifully with the freshness of the strawberries, making this cheesecake irresistible for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is a dessert dream come true for chocolate lovers and fruit fans alike. The creamy chocolate filling is perfectly balanced by the bright, fruity strawberry topping, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Its visually stunning presentation—complete with glossy strawberries atop a rich, chocolate base—makes it a fantastic centerpiece for any dessert table. Plus, the recipe is adaptable: you can make it ahead of time, freeze leftovers, or customize the crust and topping to suit your preferences. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe will walk you through the steps to create a masterpiece.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour
• Cooling time: 6 hours (or overnight)
• Total time: 7 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 28g

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (from chocolate graham crackers or Oreos, without the filling)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the chocolate cheesecake filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled

For the strawberry topping:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the bottom of a glass to pack it tightly.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together with a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth.
5. Fold in the melted chocolate using a spatula, mixing gently until fully incorporated and the batter is uniform in color.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 55-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
3. Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the strawberry mixture and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let the topping cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Once the cheesecake has cooled in the oven, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. When ready to serve, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the surface of the cheesecake. For a more elegant presentation, arrange the strawberries in a decorative pattern and drizzle the sauce on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter.
2. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Chocolate Cookie Crust

The base of this cheesecake is made from crushed chocolate cookies, which provide a crunchy, chocolatey foundation that complements the creamy filling. You can use chocolate graham crackers, Oreos (without the filling), or any similar cookies.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is the star of any cheesecake, giving the dessert its rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture. Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best results.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate

Semi-sweet chocolate adds depth and richness to the cheesecake filling without being overly sweet. You can substitute dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.

Fresh Strawberries

Fresh strawberries provide a burst of natural sweetness and tanginess, perfectly balancing the richness of the chocolate filling. They also add a vibrant red color that makes the cheesecake visually appealing.

Technique Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth batter with no lumps.
2. Melted Chocolate: Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before adding it to the batter to prevent curdling.
3. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.
4. Water Bath Alternative: If you don’t want to use a water bath, placing the pan on a baking sheet and cooling it gradually will still help minimize cracks.
5. Thick Strawberry Sauce: Adjust the cornstarch slurry if the topping is too runny or thick, adding a bit more cornstarch or water as needed.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Layered Cheesecake: Alternate layers of chocolate cheesecake filling with strawberry puree for a striped effect.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin lined with cupcake wrappers to create individual portions.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the strawberry topping for an extra touch of elegance.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to make clean slices.
• If you notice cracks in the cheesecake, cover them with the strawberry topping for a flawless appearance.
• Let the cheesecake chill overnight for the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

1. White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake: Replace the semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate for a lighter, sweeter flavor.
2. Gluten-Free Cheesecake: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.
3. Berry Medley: Combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry topping.
4. Chocolate Ganache Topping: Add a layer of rich chocolate ganache beneath the strawberry topping for extra decadence.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cheesecake (without the strawberry topping) for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream to lower the calorie and fat content.
• Substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or coconut sugar.
• Use dark chocolate with a higher cacao content for less sugar and more antioxidants.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Valentine’s Day: Garnish with heart-shaped strawberry slices and serve with sparkling juice.
• Birthday Parties: Add birthday candles or colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Holiday Dinners: Serve alongside coffee or tea for a sophisticated dessert course.

Special Equipment

• 9-inch springform pan for easy removal
• Stand mixer or hand mixer for a smooth filling
• Offset spatula for spreading the batter evenly

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking to prevent a watery topping.

2. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at a consistent temperature, and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cheesecake tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop fully.

4. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use a regular cake pan, but you’ll need to line it with parchment paper to lift the cheesecake out after baking.

5. Can I skip the crust?
Yes, but the crust adds a delightful texture and helps support the cheesecake.

6. What’s the best chocolate to use?
High-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao is ideal for a rich flavor.

7. Can I use a no-bake cheesecake filling?
Yes, but the texture will be lighter, and you’ll need to chill the cheesecake longer to set.

8. How do I store leftover strawberry topping?
Refrigerate leftover topping in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Use it on pancakes, waffles, or ice cream!

Conclusion

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is the perfect marriage of indulgence and elegance. With its creamy chocolate filling, buttery crust, and vibrant strawberry topping, it’s a dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to delight everyone at the table. With simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and plenty of room for customization, you can create a dessert that’s uniquely yours. Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of chocolate and strawberries in every bite!

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