Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Crust
01 -
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 -
1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
→ Cheesecake Filling
04 -
24 oz cream cheese, softened
05 -
1 cup granulated sugar
06 -
1 tsp vanilla extract
07 -
3 large eggs
08 -
1/2 cup sour cream
09 -
1/4 cup heavy cream
→ Chocolate Ganache
10 -
1 cup heavy cream
11 -
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
→ Strawberry Topping
12 -
1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
13 -
1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 163°C (325°F). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add melted butter and mix until evenly combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated. Gradually beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring the mixture is not over-mixed. Mix in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth. Pour the batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
03 -
Place the filled springform pan in the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool inside the oven for an additional hour to prevent cracking. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
04 -
Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Allow to sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Let the ganache cool to room temperature and thicken slightly. Pour over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
05 -
Slice strawberries and set aside. For a glossy finish, heat strawberry jam in a small saucepan until liquid, and brush over the sliced strawberries (optional).
06 -
After the ganache has set, arrange the strawberry slices on top of the cheesecake in a circular pattern or any desired design. Serve chilled and enjoy.
# Notes:
01 -
For better texture, ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, and avoid overworking the batter.
02 -
This dessert is ideal for prep the day before serving as it requires adequate chilling time.
03 -
Consider using chocolate wafer cookies or adding cocoa powder to the crust for a more intense chocolate flavor.