Description
This decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake features a rich, creamy chocolate-infused filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with fresh macerated strawberries and a luscious chocolate drizzle. Ideal for chocolate lovers seeking a luxurious dessert with a hint of fruitiness.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (optional for a chocolate crust)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate, melted
For the Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Chocolate Drizzle
- 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and cocoa powder if using. Mix well, then press evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove and cool completely.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and beat until combined. Mix in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition without overbeating. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth. Fold in melted semisweet chocolate until fully incorporated.
- Assemble and bake the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-60 minutes, until the center is almost set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional hour to cool gradually and prevent cracking.
- Cool and chill: After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
- Prepare the strawberry topping: In a small bowl, toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for at least 15 minutes to release juices and create a syrupy topping.
- Make the chocolate drizzle: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth and melted. Allow to cool slightly before use.
- Assemble to serve: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, top with the macerated strawberries. Drizzle melted chocolate over the strawberries or around the edges. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Do not overbeat the eggs into the batter to avoid cracking during baking.
- Allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface.
- The strawberry topping can be prepared several hours ahead to enhance flavor.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, add cocoa powder to the crust and incorporate melted chocolate into the filling as described.
- Use a water bath if desired to create an extra creamy texture and reduce cracking, although not necessary for this recipe.