Introduction
Indulge your sweet tooth with this delightful Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake! The combination of creamy cheesecake, a buttery graham cracker crust, and luscious chocolate-covered strawberries creates a dessert that is not only beautiful but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, this cheesecake is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- Additional strawberries for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease an 8-inch springform pan to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake later.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Mix until fully combined and the crumbs hold together.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix!
- Gently stir in the sour cream until the mixture is silky smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. This will give it that perfect creamy texture!
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually, preventing cracks on the surface.
- After an hour, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval until the chocolate is completely smooth.
- Dip each fresh strawberry in the melted chocolate, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off. Place them on parchment paper to harden.
- Once the cheesecake is set and chilled, top it generously with the chocolate-dipped strawberries and drizzle with any remaining melted chocolate, if desired.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy the blissful combination of flavors!
Notes or Tips
For even more flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the batter for a bright, zesty hint. Make sure to use room-temperature ingredients for the best mixing results. If the chocolate hardens before you finish dipping the strawberries, just give it a quick 10-second zap in the microwave to soften it up again.
Cooking Techniques
When making cheesecake, the key is to avoid overmixing, especially after adding the eggs, as this can lead to a dense texture. Additionally, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks. This method replicates a water-bath environment, which is often used for cheesecakes to provide a gentle cooking process. Melting chocolate can be done effortlessly if you keep an eye on it and stir frequently, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish for your strawberries.
FAQ
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making a day in advance. The flavors only get better as it sits. Just store it tightly covered in the refrigerator.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for the best taste.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake is a decadent, show-stopping dessert that is sure to be a hit wherever you serve it. With its creamy texture, delicious strawberry and chocolate toppings, and a delightful crust, it’s an irresistible treat that proves cheesecakes can be both elegant and comforting. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every delicious bite!