Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake

This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake is a dreamy fusion of three dessert favorites: rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and juicy strawberries. It’s the kind of dessert that belongs at birthdays, anniversaries, or anytime you want to impress guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The crisp graham cracker crust, ultra-smooth filling, glossy ganache, and decorative strawberries create a showstopping centerpiece that tastes as incredible as it looks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the elegance of chocolate-covered strawberries with creamy cheesecake
• A stunning dessert for special occasions or holidays
• Lush layers of chocolate, cream, and fruit in every bite
• Great for making ahead—flavors intensify overnight
• Beginner-friendly with step-by-step directions

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate wafer cookies for extra chocolate flavor)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Strawberry Topping:

• 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves (optional, for shine)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment.
4. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add sugar and vanilla; mix until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
4. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the cooled crust.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in foil and place it in a roasting pan.
2. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides.
3. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until edges are set and center jiggles slightly.
4. Turn off the oven and crack the door. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.
5. Remove and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Make the Ganache

1. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers.
2. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
3. Let ganache cool slightly, then spread over chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Strawberry Topping

1. Slice strawberries.
2. (Optional) Warm jam in a small saucepan until liquid. Brush over strawberries for shine.

Assemble

1. Arrange strawberries over the set ganache in any decorative pattern.
2. Chill until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use chocolate wafer cookies in place of graham crackers for more cocoa flavor.
• Add a swirl of strawberry purée in the filling before baking for extra berry burst.
• Want a lighter texture? Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt.
• For elegant flair, drizzle melted white chocolate over the finished cake.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or extra ganache drizzle.
• Perfect alongside espresso or sparkling rosé.
• Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Store covered for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze slices for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil.
• Thaw: In fridge overnight. Avoid microwaving.

FAQs

Can I make this without a water bath?
Yes, but you risk cracking. Use a pan of water on the rack below as a cheat method.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh is best for texture and appearance, but thawed frozen berries work in a pinch.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake is the ultimate celebration dessert—decadent, elegant, and unforgettable. With a buttery crust, silky-smooth cheesecake filling, rich chocolate ganache, and a crown of luscious strawberries, it delivers layer after layer of indulgent flavor and texture. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply satisfying a serious dessert craving, this cheesecake will steal the spotlight and hearts at the table. Follow each step with care, and you’ll be rewarded with a picture-perfect dessert that tastes even better than it looks.

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