Indulge in the perfect blend of flavors with these decadent chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes. A delightful fusion of strawberry cheesecake filling nestled on a chocolate Oreo crust, all crowned with luscious chocolate ganache and adorned with chocolate-dipped strawberries. This recipe is a true showstopper, ideal for those special occasions that call for a touch of elegance and sweetness.
Crafted with love and attention to detail, each bite of these mini cheesecakes promises a symphony of textures and tastes. The creamy strawberry-infused filling harmonizes beautifully with the rich chocolate elements, creating a dessert sensation that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you’re a cheesecake aficionado or a dessert enthusiast looking for a new favorite, these chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
To create these delicious chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes, gather the following ingredients for the chocolate crust, strawberry cheesecake filling, chocolate ganache topping, and strawberry garnish.
For the Chocolate Crust
- 2 1/4 cups Oreo cookie crumbs (about 25-30 Oreos)
- 4 tbsp salted butter, melted
For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling
- 3 cups chopped strawberries
- 24 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1 1/2 tbsp strawberry extract
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 8 drops red food coloring
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pink gel icing color
- Chocolate covered strawberries (homemade or store-bought)
Equipment Needed
To create these delectable chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes, you will need some essential kitchen tools and baking supplies to make the process seamless and enjoyable.
Kitchen Tools
- Melon Baller: For removing the strawberry stems and creating a cavity for the cheesecake filling.
- Mixer: To beat the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and fluffy.
- Piping Bag or Zip-close Bag: For filling the strawberries with the cheesecake mixture.
- Baking Sheet: To place the filled strawberries for chilling in the fridge.
- Small Pot: To create a double boiler for melting chocolate for dipping.
- Wax Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and storage of the filled strawberries.
- Metal or Glass Bowl: To melt the chocolate chips for dipping the strawberries.
- Rubber Spatula: For stirring and smoothing out the melted chocolate.
- Optional: Decorative Cupcake Liners or Serving Platter for presentation.
Preparation
Time to get everything ready for these delicious chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes! Let’s start with preparing the crust and making the cheesecake filling.
Preparing the Crust
To start, preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (163 degrees C) and line a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan with parchment paper, greasing the sides.
Crust Ingredients:
- Oreo cookies
- Melted butter
- Granulated sugar
In a small bowl, combine the crust ingredients. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes and set it aside to cool.
Making the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream cheese
- Sugar
- Sour cream
- Strawberry puree
- Gelatin
- Water
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries (for garnish)
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar until creamy and consistent with no lumps. Pour in the strawberry puree and mix well. While the mixer is running on low speed, prepare the gelatin mixture.
In a saucepan, sprinkle powdered gelatin over cold water, let it absorb for about 2 minutes, then heat over medium-low heat until the gelatin liquifies. Slowly pour the gelatin into the cream cheese mixture while the mixer is running. Fold in the whipped cream until well combined.
Pour the cheesecake batter into the crust and refrigerate until set, around 3 hours or overnight. To serve, unmold the cheesecake and top it with capped fresh strawberries.
Cooking Process
Baking the Cheesecake
To bake the cheesecake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Combine the butter and graham cracker crumbs, press them firmly into a springform pan to form the crust. Beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth, then add eggs, cream, flour, and vanilla. Pour this mixture over the crust in the pan. Bake for 40 minutes, then reduce the heat to 325°F and bake for an additional 40 minutes. After baking, spread a mixture of sour cream and sugar over the top and bake for 10 more minutes. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating it for at least 3-4 hours to set. Finally, remove the outer ring from the springform pan.
Creating the Chocolate Ganache
To make the chocolate ganache, place chocolate chips in a bowl over a pot of boiling water for gentle melting. Stir the chocolate until smooth and glossy. Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Assembly
Assembling the chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes is the most exciting part of this delightful treat. Adding the luscious ganache topping and placing the chocolate-covered strawberries elevates the visual appeal and taste of these mini cheesecakes.
Adding the Ganache Topping
- Prepare the chocolate ganache by placing chocolate chips in a heat-proof bowl.
- Heat the whipping cream until it just begins to boil, then pour it over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Whisk the mixture until smooth and pour the ganache onto the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly.
- Allow the ganache to cool and firm up, enhancing the richness of the dessert.
- Carefully place the chocolate-covered strawberries in the center of each mini cheesecake pan.
- Line the inside of the pans with acetate sheets for easy removal.
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the strawberries, smoothing the tops for a polished finish.
- Cover the pans with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to set the cheesecakes.
- Before serving, gently push up on the bottoms of the pans to remove the individual cheesecakes and transfer them to a serving plate.
- Garnish with additional strawberries or mint leaves for a fresh and inviting presentation.
Serving Suggestions
When serving these delightful chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes, consider presenting them on a decorative dessert platter or a tiered stand for an elegant touch. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate the experience:
1. Garnish with Fresh Strawberry Slices:
Enhance the visual appeal of your chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes by garnishing them with a few thin slices of fresh strawberries on top. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dessert, making it even more inviting.
2. Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce:
For an extra decadent touch, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the plated cheesecakes just before serving. The luxurious chocolate sauce complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the strawberry cheesecake, creating a luscious and indulgent treat.
3. Serve with Whipped Cream:
Pairing the chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes with a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy element to the dessert. The creamy texture of the whipped cream balances the rich flavors of the cheesecake and chocolate, enhancing the overall experience.
4. Add a Sprig of Mint:
To introduce a hint of freshness and a subtle herbal note to the dessert, consider adding a small sprig of fresh mint as a garnish. The mint complements the sweet strawberries and creamy cheesecake, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
5. Pair with a Cup of Coffee or Tea:
For a delightful after-dinner treat, serve the chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a fragrant pot of herbal tea. The warm beverages help cleanse the palate between bites and enhance the enjoyment of the dessert.
6. Customize with Edible Flowers:
For a unique and sophisticated presentation, consider adorning the plated cheesecakes with edible flowers such as pansies or violets. These delicate floral accents add a touch of elegance and whimsy to the dessert, making it a visually stunning finale to any meal.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake
When making a cheesecake, there are certain tips and tricks that can help ensure a perfect result every time. Here are some key tips for achieving the best chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake:
1. Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature ingredients, such as cream cheese, butter, and sour cream, is crucial for a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling. Make sure to set these ingredients out well in advance to allow them to come to room temperature naturally.
2. Avoid Overmixing
When incorporating the ingredients for the cheesecake filling, avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to incorporating too much air into the batter, resulting in a cracked cheesecake. Mix until just combined for a velvety texture.
3. Perfect Crust
For the chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake, the crust plays a key role. Ensure your crust is properly pressed into the pan, creating an even layer for the perfect base. Using crushed Nilla wafers mixed with melted butter provides a delicious foundation.
4. Water Bath Method
To prevent your cheesecake from cracking while baking, consider using a water bath. This gentle baking technique helps regulate the temperature, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture throughout the cheesecake.
5. Proper Cooling
Once your chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake is done baking, allow it to cool properly. Cooling the cheesecake gradually at room temperature before refrigerating helps prevent cracks and ensures a well-set filling.
By following these tips, you can master the art of making the perfect chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake every time. These simple yet effective techniques will elevate your dessert game and impress your guests with a decadent and delicious treat.
Storage and Preservation
Once you’ve created these delectable chocolate-covered strawberry cheesecakes, you’ll want to ensure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here are some simple steps to help you store and preserve them properly:
Refrigeration:
- Place the chocolate-covered strawberry cheesecakes in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other flavors in the refrigerator.
- Make sure to refrigerate the cheesecakes promptly after preparation to keep them fresh.
- If you want to store the cheesecakes for a longer period, you can freeze them.
- Place the cheesecakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
- Once they are firm, transfer the cheesecakes to a freezer-safe container or airtight bag.
- When ready to enjoy, allow the cheesecakes to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
By following these storage and preservation tips, you can enjoy your chocolate-covered strawberry cheesecakes for an extended period without compromising their flavor and quality.
Conclusion
Creating chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes is a delightful culinary adventure that combines the richness of chocolate with the fruity sweetness of strawberries in a creamy cheesecake. Mastering the art of making these decadent treats involves attention to detail, from perfecting the cheesecake filling to achieving a flawless crust. By following the provided tips on ingredient preparation, mixing techniques, baking methods, and storage practices, you can ensure that your chocolate covered strawberry cheesecakes turn out perfectly every time. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cheesecakes are sure to impress with their harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake masterpiece. Happy baking!