Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake
This Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is the perfect marriage of rich chocolate and fresh, sweet strawberries! With a decadent chocolate crust, creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, and a vibrant strawberry topping, this dessert is as stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs (or crushed chocolate cookies)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the chocolate cheesecake filling:
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and slightly cooled
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the strawberry topping:
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the chocolate drizzle (optional):
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
For garnish (optional):
• Extra fresh strawberries
• Chocolate shavings or curls
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in the sour cream, melted chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed until just incorporated.
4. Bake the cheesecake: Pour the chocolate cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggles when gently shaken. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Make the strawberry topping: In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and soften. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Let cool completely.
6. Make the chocolate drizzle (optional): Melt the chocolate chips and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
7. Assemble the cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the cheesecake. Drizzle with melted chocolate, if using.
8. Garnish: Decorate with extra fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings or curls for an elegant finish.
9. Serve: Slice and enjoy this rich, fruity, and creamy dessert!
Prep time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Chill time: 4 hours
Servings: 12 slices | Calories: 430 kcal
