The Ultimate Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake

This decadent cheesecake features a rich chocolate filling, a graham cracker crust, and is topped with luscious chocolate-covered strawberries. Perfect for a special occasion or an indulgent treat!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted

For the Chocolate Covered Strawberries:

• 12 large strawberries
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted

For Decoration:

• Whipped cream
• Shaved chocolate

Directions

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

1. Prepare the Crust:

• In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

1. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add sour cream, then eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, heavy cream, cocoa powder, and melted dark chocolate until well combined.

1. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.

1. Cool and Chill:

• Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

1. Prepare the Chocolate Covered Strawberries:

• Dip each strawberry in melted dark chocolate mixed with coconut oil. Place on a parchment-lined tray and allow to set.

1. Make the Chocolate Ganache:

• Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over dark chocolate chips and stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

1. Assemble the Cheesecake:

• Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Arrange the chocolate-covered strawberries on top of the ganache.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with whipped cream and shaved chocolate before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 50-60 minutes
• Chilling Time: 5 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 12 slices

Variations

• Fruit Variations: Substitute strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist.
• Ganache Variations: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate for the ganache for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Thaw frozen cheesecake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
   Yes, you can use crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers for a different flavor.
2. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
   Bake the cheesecake in a water bath or add a pan of water to the oven to help regulate temperature and prevent cracks.
3. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
   Yes, this cheesecake can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
4. What if I don’t have coconut oil?
   You can omit the coconut oil or use a small amount of vegetable oil as a substitute.
5. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
   The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and slightly puffed, and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
   Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
7. How should I store leftover cheesecake?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage.
8. Can I use a different type of cream for the ganache?
   Yes, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk as an alternative to heavy cream.
9. How can I make the cheesecake more chocolatey?
   Add extra melted chocolate to the filling or ganache for a more intense chocolate flavor.
10. How should I serve the cheesecake?
    Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that combines the creaminess of cheesecake with the rich flavor of chocolate and the freshness of strawberries. Ideal for any celebration or a special treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

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