Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Dreamy Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Sweet summer nights call for a decadent chocolate strawberry cheesecake that melts hearts instantly.

Creamy layers promise pure indulgence with every delightful bite.

Berries and chocolate dance together in a luxurious dessert symphony.

Rich cream cheese forms the perfect canvas for these vibrant flavors.

Subtle hints of vanilla complement the intense chocolate and bright strawberry notes.

Each slice reveals a stunning marbled pattern that looks as incredible as it tastes.

Why Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Captivates Everyone

  • Celebrate Decadent Flavor Fusion: Indulge in a luxurious dessert that perfectly marries rich chocolate with fresh, sweet strawberries for a mouthwatering taste experience.
  • Impress with Gourmet Presentation: Create a restaurant-quality dessert that looks professionally made, guaranteed to wow guests and elevate any special occasion.
  • Master Advanced Baking Techniques: Learn sophisticated cheesecake preparation methods that build confidence in the kitchen, including precise baking and cooling processes.
  • Customize with Seasonal Flair: Adapt the recipe by using fresh, in-season strawberries to make this dessert feel uniquely personal and wonderfully fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

Crust Ingredients:
  • Chocolate Cookie Crumbs: A delicious chocolate base that creates a rich and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Melted Butter: Provides moisture and helps the crust hold its shape.
Cheesecake Filling Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The main component that gives the cheesecake its creamy and smooth texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling and balances the tangy cream cheese.
  • Sour Cream: Adds richness and a subtle tanginess to the cheesecake.
  • Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and provide structure to the cheesecake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm and sweet aroma.
  • Cocoa Powder: Introduces a deep chocolate flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Chopped Strawberries: Adds fresh fruity bursts throughout the cheesecake.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Sliced Strawberries, Granulated Sugar, Cornstarch, Water: Create a glossy and thick strawberry sauce that adds a vibrant fruit layer.
  • Heavy Cream, Chocolate Chips: Make a smooth and decadent chocolate ganache that adds a luxurious finish to the cheesecake.

Directions to Craft Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Station

Warm up the oven to 325F (165C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Create the Chocolatey Crust

Mix together:
  • Chocolate cookie crumbs
  • Granulated sugar
  • Melted butter

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid and even base for the cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until silky smooth. Gradually add sour cream, then incorporate eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended. Stir in vanilla extract and cocoa powder until the mixture is completely combined. Gently fold in chopped strawberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 4: Pour and Smooth the Batter

Transfer the cheesecake batter over the chocolate crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly and eliminate any air pockets.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for an additional hour, allowing it to cool slowly and prevent cracking.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.

Step 7: Prepare Strawberry Topping

In a small saucepan, combine:
  • Sliced strawberries
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Water

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. Allow the topping to cool, then spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 8: Drizzle with Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to boil. Pour the hot cream over chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly, then pour over the strawberry topping.

Step 9: Final Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake until you’re ready to serve, allowing the toppings to set completely.

Pro Secrets for Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

  • Prevent Cracking: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to create a moist environment and reduce surface cracks, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Slice Strawberries Precisely: Cut strawberries into uniform sizes for even distribution and a professional-looking presentation throughout the cheesecake.
  • Control Chocolate Intensity: Adjust cocoa powder quantity to make the chocolate flavor more subtle or rich based on personal preference.
  • Ensure Smooth Ganache: Stir chocolate ganache gently and let it cool slightly before pouring to achieve a glossy, even coating without air bubbles.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing to create a smoother, lump-free cheesecake batter.

Flavor Variants of Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

  • Vegan Berry Bliss: Replace cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use vegan butter, and swap eggs with flax eggs. Substitute chocolate cookie crumbs with gluten-free chocolate cookie alternative.
  • No-Bake Berry Dream: Skip the baking process entirely by using gelatin or agar-agar to set the cheesecake. Chill in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours until firm, creating a lighter, cooler dessert.
  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Indulgence: Use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs for the base. Swap regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to maintain the rich texture.
  • Low-Sugar Berry Delight: Replace granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia.

Pairing Recommendations for Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

  • Pair Sparkling Rosé Wine: Complement the rich chocolate and sweet strawberry flavors with a light, bubbly rosé that enhances the dessert's fruity and decadent profile.
  • Match Dark Chocolate Espresso: Brew a strong espresso to highlight the cocoa notes in the cheesecake, creating a robust and intense flavor combination that deepens the dessert's complexity.
  • Serve Raspberry Liqueur: Drizzle a small amount of raspberry liqueur alongside the cheesecake to intensify the berry notes and add a sophisticated alcoholic touch to the dessert experience.
  • Garnish with Fresh Mint: Add a few fresh mint leaves as a garnish to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and sweet strawberry flavors, cleansing the palate between bites.

Storage Solutions for Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

  • Store covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep the cheesecake in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain its texture and flavor.
  • Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut individual slices and store them in sealed containers. Separate slices with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain quality.
  • Bring refrigerated cheesecake to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. For a slightly warm slice, microwave individual portions for 10-15 seconds on low power.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

  • Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them completely to prevent excess moisture in the cheesecake.

  • How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the batter, use room temperature ingredients, and bake the cheesecake in a water bath or with the oven door slightly open as instructed.

  • Is there a substitute for chocolate cookie crumbs?

You can use graham cracker crumbs or Oreo cookie crumbs as an alternative base for the cheesecake crust.

  • Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

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Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe


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4.9 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes (including chilling and cooling times)
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent chocolate strawberry cheesecake brings rich, creamy layers of sweet sophistication to dessert lovers. Sweet strawberry swirls and chocolate ganache create an irresistible finale you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Crust Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Topping and Garnish:

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chocolate ganache
  • 2 tablespoons strawberry preserves

Instructions

  1. Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lightly greasing and setting oven temperature to 325F (165C).
  2. Create a rich chocolate crust by thoroughly mixing cookie crumbs with melted butter and sugar, then pressing firmly into the pan’s bottom.
  3. Craft the cheesecake filling by whipping cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth, gradually incorporating sour cream and eggs while maintaining a consistent texture.
  4. Enhance the batter’s complexity by gently folding in cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and delicate strawberry pieces until evenly distributed.
  5. Transfer the velvety mixture into the prepared crust, ensuring an even surface with gentle spreading.
  6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, watching for a set center with minimal jiggling when gently shaken.
  7. After baking, allow the cheesecake to rest inside the oven with the door slightly ajar for one hour, facilitating gradual cooling and preventing surface cracking.
  8. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to develop optimal flavor and texture.
  9. Prepare the strawberry topping by simmering sliced strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and water until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
  10. Create a luxurious chocolate ganache by pouring scalding cream over chocolate chips, allowing brief resting, then stirring until achieving a glossy, smooth consistency.
  11. Artfully layer the cooled strawberry topping across the chilled cheesecake’s surface.
  12. Drizzle the slightly cooled ganache over the strawberry layer, creating an elegant finish.
  13. Refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing flavors to meld and textures to set perfectly.

Notes

  • Prevent cracks by using room temperature ingredients and avoiding overmixing the cheesecake batter.
  • Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during baking for a moist, even texture.
  • Substitute gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust to make this dessert celiac-friendly and accommodate gluten sensitivities.
  • Reduce sugar content by using fresh strawberries and dark chocolate with lower sugar percentages for a healthier version of this decadent dessert.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including baking and cooking topping)
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 159
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 46 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 15 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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