Enjoy a decadent fusion of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and rich chocolate ganache with this indulgent dessert. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups crushed chocolate wafer cookies
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 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 fresh strawberries, chopped

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Topping:

1 cup fresh strawberries, halved
1/4 cup melted semi-sweet chocolate for drizzling

Directions

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a medium bowl, mix crushed chocolate wafer cookies, granulated sugar, and melted butter. 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. Stir in vanilla extract and chopped strawberries until well combined.
Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust, spreading it evenly.

Bake the Cheesecake:

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for another hour.

Garnish and Serve:

Before serving, top the cheesecake with halved strawberries and drizzle with melted chocolate.

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

Berry Medley: Replace strawberries with a mix of raspberries and blueberries for a berry twist.
Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts or toffee bits on top of the ganache for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can use any type of crushed cookie, such as graham crackers or Oreos, for a different flavor.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use a regular pie dish or cake pan, but make sure to line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
How can I make the cheesecake more chocolatey?
Mix some melted chocolate into the cheesecake batter before baking for a richer chocolate flavor.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Bake at a lower temperature and avoid overmixing the batter. Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven to prevent sudden temperature changes.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How do I make sure the ganache is smooth?
Make sure the cream is hot enough to melt the chocolate completely. Stir gently to avoid incorporating air bubbles.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips for the ganache?
You can use chopped chocolate bars or chocolate melts as an alternative.
Can I add a fruit compote on top?
Yes, a fruit compote or sauce can be added on top of the ganache for extra flavor.
How can I make the cheesecake more festive?
Decorate with edible gold leaf or colorful sprinkles for a special touch.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake combines rich, creamy cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries and a luscious chocolate ganache. It’s a luxurious dessert perfect for any celebration or as a sweet indulgence. Enjoy!