Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

Featured in Irresistible Desserts.

Indulge in this decadent chocolate-covered strawberry cheesecake, featuring a classic graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping. This dessert is finished with fresh, glossy strawberries arranged beautifully on top, delivering the perfect balance of richness and sweetness. A show-stopping treat for celebrations or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cheesecake is as delicious as it is stunning.

Ranah
Updated on Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:45:17 GMT
A slice of pink cake with chocolate drizzled on top. Pin it
A slice of pink cake with chocolate drizzled on top. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

This chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake combines two classic desserts into one spectacular treat. The silky smooth cheesecake base provides the perfect canvas for rich chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries, creating a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

I first made this for my daughter's birthday celebration, and it's now our go-to dessert whenever we want to make something truly special. The look on everyone's face when you bring this to the table is worth every minute of preparation.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs: creates a buttery, slightly sweet foundation that complements the filling perfectly
  • Cream cheese: use full-fat for the richest flavor and smoothest texture
  • Sour cream: adds tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cheesecake
  • Heavy cream: creates silky texture in both the filling and ganache
  • Semisweet chocolate chips: provides deep chocolate flavor without being overly sweet
  • Fresh strawberries: choose bright red berries with no white shoulders for the best flavor
  • Strawberry jam: optional but adds a beautiful glossy finish to the berries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:
Combine graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the springform pan using the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer. The firm pressure ensures your crust won't crumble when slicing.
Mix the Filling:
Beat cream cheese until completely smooth before adding sugar. This crucial step prevents lumps in your final cheesecake. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Overmixing introduces air bubbles that can cause cracks during baking.
Bake with Care:
Place the filled springform pan in a preheated oven and bake until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This gradual cooling process where you turn off the oven but leave the cheesecake inside is the secret to prevent cracks forming on the surface.
Create the Ganache:
Heat heavy cream just until bubbles form around the edges. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit undisturbed for one minute before stirring. This patience allows the chocolate to melt properly, creating a smooth, glossy ganache that will set beautifully on your cheesecake.
Add the Finishing Touch:
Arrange sliced strawberries in a decorative pattern on top of the set ganache. Working from the outside edge inward creates the most visually appealing design. For extra shine, brush with warmed strawberry jam for a professional patisserie look.
A slice of cake with chocolate drizzle and strawberries on top. Pin it
A slice of cake with chocolate drizzle and strawberries on top. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

My secret ingredient is actually a technique. I always leave my cream cheese out overnight to ensure it's completely softened. My grandmother taught me this trick, explaining that patience is the key to a silky smooth cheesecake without a single lump.

Preventing Cheesecake Cracks

The most common issue with cheesecakes is surface cracking. Beyond the gradual cooling method mentioned in the instructions, consider placing a shallow pan of water on the lower rack of your oven while baking. This creates a humid environment that helps prevent the surface from drying out and cracking. Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as sudden temperature changes are another common cause of cracks.

Perfect Slicing Technique

For clean, professional-looking slices, dip your knife in hot water before each cut, wiping the blade clean between slices. This prevents the creamy filling from sticking to the knife and tearing the cheesecake. For the most precise cuts, refrigerate the finished cheesecake overnight before slicing.

Make It Your Own

While this classic version is hard to beat, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the cheesecake batter for a mocha-strawberry version. For white chocolate lovers, substitute white chocolate chips in the ganache and add a few drops of pink food coloring for a stunning visual effect. During holiday seasons, arrange the strawberries in festive patterns for a seasonal touch.

A slice of pink cake with chocolate drizzle and strawberries on top. Pin it
A slice of pink cake with chocolate drizzle and strawberries on top. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and avoid over-mixing the batter. Gradually cool the cheesecake in the oven after baking to prevent drastic temperature changes.

→ Can I make the cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Let it chill in the fridge overnight for the best results.

→ How can I create a chocolate crust for extra flavor?

Swap graham cracker crumbs for chocolate wafer cookie crumbs and add a pinch of cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.

→ What can I use as alternatives to strawberries?

Raspberries, blueberries, or even blackberries can be used instead of strawberries for a fruity topping with a different twist.

→ How do I achieve a glossy strawberry finish?

Brush the sliced strawberries with warmed strawberry jam or preserves to give them a shiny and appealing look.

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Dessert

Creamy cheesecake layered with ganache and strawberries.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
60 Minutes
Total Time
80 Minutes
By: Ranah


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ For the crust

01 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or chocolate wafer cookies
02 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ For the cheesecake filling

04 3 (8 oz) packages 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

→ For the chocolate ganache

10 1 cup heavy cream
11 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

→ For the strawberry topping

12 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
13 1/4 cup strawberry jam or preserves (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in melted butter until evenly mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes, remove and let cool.

Step 02

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth. Pour batter over the cooled crust.

Step 03

Bake the cheesecake for 55-60 minutes at 325°F (163°C) until edges are set but center remains slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually. Remove, let cool completely at room temperature, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 04

Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Once cooled slightly, spread over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 05

Slice strawberries and, if desired, heat strawberry jam until liquid. Brush jam over sliced strawberries for a glossy finish.

Step 06

Once ganache has set, arrange sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake in your preferred design. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

  1. Make-Ahead: This cheesecake is ideal for preparing a day in advance as it requires hours to set.
  2. Crust Variations: Substitute graham crackers with chocolate wafer cookies or enhance flavor with a pinch of cocoa powder.
  3. Cheesecake Texture: Ensure cream cheese is softened fully for a smoother result, and avoid overmixing the batter.
  4. Strawberry Substitutes: Raspberries or blueberries may replace strawberries, but the dessert's classic flavor shines with strawberries.
  5. Serving Tip: Keep the cheesecake chilled until serving to maintain its texture and the ganache consistency.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Small saucepan
  • Heatproof bowl

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese, heavy cream, sour cream)
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains gluten (graham crackers or cookies)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 423.5
  • Total Fat: 30.4 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 31.2 g
  • Protein: 6.5 g