Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake: A Decadent Delight

There’s nothing quite as luxurious as the combination of chocolate and strawberries, and when you blend that with the rich creaminess of cheesecake, you get an irresistible dessert that feels like pure indulgence. This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake is the perfect blend of velvety cheesecake, luscious strawberries, and a glossy chocolate ganache.

Whether you’re making this for Valentine’s Day, a special celebration, or just because you deserve something delicious, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. The contrast between the creamy cheesecake, the tart freshness of strawberries, and the deep richness of chocolate makes for an unforgettable treat.

Let’s dive into this show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

🍰 Ingredients

For the Crust

Ingredient	Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs	1 ½ cups
Granulated sugar	2 tbsp
Unsalted butter, melted	6 tbsp

For the Cheesecake Filling

Ingredient	Quantity
Cream cheese (room temperature)	24 oz (3 blocks)
Granulated sugar	¾ cup
Large eggs	3
Sour cream	½ cup
Heavy cream	¼ cup
Pure vanilla extract	1 tsp
Fresh strawberries, finely chopped	1 cup

For the Chocolate Ganache

Ingredient	Quantity
Semi-sweet chocolate chips	1 cup
Heavy cream	½ cup

For the Topping

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh whole strawberries	10-12
Melted chocolate (for drizzling)	½ cup

🛠 Equipment Needed

• 9-inch springform pan – Ensures easy removal without damaging the cheesecake.
• Mixing bowls – For combining the crust, filling, and ganache.
• Electric mixer – Helps achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
• Food processor (optional) – To finely crush the graham crackers for the crust.
• Saucepan – For making the chocolate ganache.
• Spatula – To evenly spread layers.
• Baking sheet – To help prevent cracking by using a water bath.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
3. Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
2. Place the pan in a water bath (wrap the bottom of the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water).
3. Bake for 60-70 minutes until the edges are set, but the center slightly jiggles.
4. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
5. Remove and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just starts to simmer (don’t boil).
2. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes.
3. Stir until smooth, then allow to cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cooled ganache over the chilled cheesecake, letting it drip down the sides.
2. Arrange whole strawberries on top in a decorative pattern.
3. Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra elegant touch.

🌟 Tips & Variations

• For a firmer texture, add an extra egg to the cheesecake batter.
• Want a crunchier crust? Use chocolate graham crackers instead of regular.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers.
• For an extra layer of flavor, add ½ teaspoon of almond extract to the cheesecake batter.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute with dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream, and dairy-free chocolate.
• Add a boozy twist by soaking strawberries in Grand Marnier before placing them on top!

🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Slice and serve chilled for the best texture.
• Pair with a whipped cream rosette or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh contrast.
• Serve with a side of raspberry coulis for a fruity balance.

🍷 Perfect Pairings

• Wine: A glass of ruby port or rosé champagne enhances the strawberry and chocolate notes.
• Coffee: A mocha latte or espresso pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheesecake.
• Cocktail: A chocolate martini or strawberry daiquiri makes for an indulgent combination.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Reheating (if needed): Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

🥄 Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Carbs	45g
Fat	30g
Protein	7g
Sugar	35g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

❤️ Conclusion

This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake is everything you could want in a dessert—creamy, rich, fruity, and beautifully indulgent. Whether for a holiday, a dinner party, or just a personal treat, this cheesecake will steal the show!

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out in the comments. Share your photos on social media and tag me—I’d love to see your creations!