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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Cool and Chill:
- Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- 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.
- 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.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Arrange the chocolate-covered strawberries on top of the ganache.
- 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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor. - How should I store leftover cheesecake?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for longer storage. - 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. - How can I make the cheesecake more chocolatey?
Add extra melted chocolate to the filling or ganache for a more intense chocolate flavor. - 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.