Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cheesecake

Name: Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup sugar; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and hulled; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

I absolutely adore dessert, and this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cheesecake is a true delight! The combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and rich chocolate creates a decadent treat that is perfect for any occasion. I love how easy it is to make, yet it always impresses friends and family. Plus, the visual appeal of the glossy chocolate coating contrasted with fresh strawberries makes this dessert a showstopper on any table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:13:31.712Z

When I first made this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cheesecake, I was pleasantly surprised at how the flavors meld together beautifully. The creamy level of the cheesecake is elevated by the sweetness of ripe strawberries, which cuts through the richness of the cream. Making sure to use quality ingredients truly enhances the taste, so I recommend using fresh strawberries and high-quality chocolate.

Additionally, I found that incorporating a little lemon juice into the cheesecake mix added a fresh zing that brightens the entire dessert. A tip I learned is to let the cheesecake set overnight; it allows the flavors to deepen and results in a smoother texture. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Crafting the Perfect Crust

The crust of your Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cheesecake plays an essential role in balancing the flavors and textures of the dessert. I recommend using fresh graham crackers for the crumbs, as pre-packaged options can vary in sweetness and texture. When mixing the crumb mixture, ensure the melted butter is evenly distributed to achieve a firm crust that holds together after baking. If you prefer a cookie crust, try using Oreos for a chocolatey twist.

Baking the crust is crucial for setting its structure. Keep an eye on it in the oven and look for golden edges at the 10-minute mark. If it starts to darken too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before adding the cheesecake filling to prevent sogginess.

Mastering the Cheesecake Filling

The key to a creamy cheesecake lies in the beating process. When mixing the cream cheese and sugar, ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature—this can take about an hour out of the refrigerator. An electric mixer can be particularly helpful to achieve a smooth batter without lumps. Be careful not to overmix once you add the eggs, as this can introduce excess air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake's surface during baking.

When adding the filling to the crust, start by pouring it in the center and gently spreading it towards the edges, which aids even baking. To prevent cracks, consider placing a shallow pan filled with water on the oven's lower rack while baking your cheesecake. This creates steam, helping maintain moisture and preventing the surface from drying out.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes and let cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until fully combined. Pour over the crust and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 50 minutes.

Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour.

Prepare the Topping

Once the cheesecake is cool, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Dip each strawberry into the chocolate, letting excess drip off. Arrange the chocolate-covered strawberries on top of the cheesecake.

Cool and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set completely. Once ready, slice and serve to enjoy a slice of heaven!

Pro Tips

For an impressive finish, drizzle some extra melted chocolate over the top before serving. This adds a nice touch and enhances the presentation!

Chocoholic's Guide to Topping

The melted semi-sweet chocolate creates a divine topping that enhances the dessert's richness. For the best results, temper the chocolate if you're looking for a glossy finish that won't dull after it sets. To do this, slowly heat the chocolate over a double boiler, stirring often until it reaches a smooth consistency before letting it cool slightly. This method also helps prevent the chocolate from seizing up when dipping the strawberries.

While strawberries lend a fresh burst of flavor, feel free to experiment with other fruits such as raspberries or blueberries for an exciting variation. Just remember that softer fruits may require a careful dipping technique to maintain their shape.

Storing and Serving Tips

Once your cheesecake is assembled, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and results in a firmer texture when slicing. Use a sharp knife submerged in warm water to achieve clean slices; wiping the blade after each cut will keep your presentation neat. If you're making this dessert ahead of time, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.

For serving, consider adding some shaved chocolate or a sprinkle of finely crushed graham cracker on top for an extra layer of texture and elegance. You could also pair individual slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat that will impress guests at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour.

→ What is the best way to store leftover cheesecake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Definitely! It tastes even better after chilling overnight.