Description
Indulgent chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake promises a luxurious dessert experience that blends rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberries into one irresistible treat. Passionate bakers and dessert enthusiasts will delight in this elegant, flavor-packed creation that elevates classic ingredients into a memorable culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Crust Ingredients:
- 2 cups crushed chocolate wafer cookies
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Topping and Flavoring Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces (226 grams) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 pound (454 grams) fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Create a decadent foundation by combining crushed chocolate wafer cookies with sugar and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even base.
- Whip cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth, gradually incorporating sour cream and eggs. Gently fold in vanilla extract and chopped strawberries, maintaining a uniform texture.
- Carefully transfer the creamy mixture onto the prepared crust, spreading it evenly to eliminate air pockets. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes until the center sets with a subtle wobble.
- After baking, leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for one hour, allowing it to cool gradually and prevent cracking. Remove and let it reach room temperature completely.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for minimum 4 hours or overnight to achieve optimal density and flavor development.
- Prepare luxurious chocolate ganache by heating cream until it shimmers, then pouring over chocolate chips. Stir until achieving a glossy, smooth consistency.
- Drench the chilled cheesecake with ganache, ensuring complete and even coverage. Return to refrigerator for an additional hour to set.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry halves and a delicate chocolate drizzle just before serving, creating a visually stunning dessert with rich, decadent layers.
Notes
- Prevent Cracking: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and use room temperature ingredients to create a smooth, crack-free surface.
- Water Bath Alternative: Place a pan of hot water on the bottom rack of the oven to create moisture and prevent the cheesecake from drying out or cracking.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This cheesecake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining or special occasions.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap chocolate wafer cookies with gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour-based crust for a celiac-friendly version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg