If you have a soft spot for decadent desserts that combine rich flavors and fresh fruit, you are going to adore this Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe. It blends a luscious chocolate cookie crust with a creamy, dreamy filling studded with sweet strawberries and a swirl of melted chocolate. The strawberry jam topping adds the perfect touch of brightness, making each bite a beautiful balance of indulgence and freshness. Whether it’s a special celebration or just a weekend treat, this cheesecake has a way of stealing the show and making any moment memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building flavors and textures, from the crumbly chocolate cookie crust to the silky cheesecake filling swirled with fresh strawberry pieces and melted chocolate.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Provide a deep, chocolaty base with a satisfying crunch that holds the cheesecake together perfectly.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cookie crumbs while adding rich flavor without overpowering the filling.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient for creating that signature creamy and tangy cheesecake texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right, balancing the tartness from the cream cheese and strawberries.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes that enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Large eggs: Essential for structure and a silky smooth texture.
- Sour cream: Contributes a slight tang and makes the filling extra creamy and luscious.
- Heavy cream: Improves texture by adding richness and helps the filling stay perfectly moist.
- Fresh strawberries, chopped: Bring bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color throughout the cheesecake.
- Strawberry jam: Used as a glossy, flavorful topping that highlights the fresh strawberries beautifully.
- Semi-sweet chocolate, melted: Swirled into the filling for pockets of intense chocolate goodness in every forkful.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by heating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature ensures the cheesecake cooks evenly without cracking or drying out.
Step 2: Prepare Crust
Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until all the crumbs are coated and can hold together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your chocolatey base. Set aside—it’s the perfect stage for the luscious filling.
Step 3: Make Filling
Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese together with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for a silky texture. Add the vanilla extract for that subtle warmth. Then, one by one, incorporate the eggs, beating just until combined to keep the batter light. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream to complete this velvety filling.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the chopped fresh strawberries and melted semi-sweet chocolate into the batter. This swirling of strawberries and chocolate creates a beautiful marbled effect and introduces wonderful fruity bursts and chocolate richness throughout the cheesecake.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the luscious batter over the prepared crust and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles—this guarantees a creamy interior once cooled.
Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld and the cheesecake set firmly.
Step 7: Top and Serve
Before serving, spread a generous layer of strawberry jam on top of the cheesecake. The glossy finish pairs beautifully with the fresh strawberries and chocolate within. Add extra strawberry slices if desired for a stunning finishing touch.
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, fresh strawberries sliced or halved are perfect for adorning the top. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a few delicate mint leaves can add a burst of color and enhanced aroma that harmonizes with the cheesecake’s flavors.
Side Dishes
Since this Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is rich and decadent, pair it with simple sides like a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of chilled sparkling rosé. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side also complements the dessert beautifully without overshadowing its delicate balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual servings in clear dessert glasses layered with crushed cookie crumbs, strawberry compote, and whipped cream for a deconstructed take on the cheesecake. Another idea is to drizzle a warm chocolate sauce over slices or create a checkerboard effect with alternating strawberry pieces on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture and freshness. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for gatherings or weeknight indulgences.
Freezing
If you want to save this Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe for later, wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid reheating. If you prefer it slightly less cold, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving to soften the texture delicately.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries work best to maintain texture and brightness in the Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture that could affect the filling.
What type of chocolate is ideal for this cheesecake?
Semi-sweet chocolate is recommended because it balances sweet and bitter notes beautifully, complementing both the dessert’s richness and the strawberry flavor.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the cheesecake a day in advance allows the flavors to develop fully, and the texture improves after a good chill in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent cracks on my cheesecake surface?
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, mix gently, and bake at the specified 325°F. Avoid overbaking by removing the cheesecake when the center still jiggles slightly, then cool gradually to prevent cracks.
Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
While not mandatory, a 9-inch springform pan makes it much easier to release the cheesecake without damaging its delicate edges, especially for this rich Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is one of those desserts that brings pure joy with every bite. Its rich, creamy texture, the perfect harmony between chocolate and fresh strawberries, and that delightful jam glaze make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and create some delicious memories—once you taste it, I’m sure it will be your new favorite go-to dessert!
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Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and creamy Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake featuring a chocolate cookie crust, a luscious cream cheese filling blended with fresh strawberries and melted semi-sweet chocolate, baked to perfection and topped with strawberry jam for a delightful fruity finish.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted
Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- Extra strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: In a bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, forming the base crust.
- Make Filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the chopped fresh strawberries and melted semi-sweet chocolate into the cream cheese mixture to distribute evenly.
- Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to let it fully set and develop flavor.
- Top and Serve: Before serving, spread the strawberry jam evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Garnish with extra fresh strawberries if desired for an attractive presentation and enhanced taste.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Gently fold strawberries and melted chocolate to keep the filling light and airy.
- Chilling the cheesecake thoroughly improves texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a firmer crust, bake the crust alone at 325°F for 8-10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Use a water bath during baking for an even creamier texture if desired.
